Omrit

Omrit is an archaeological site located at the junction of the Golan Heights and Upper Jordan Valley, believed to be the location of a Roman temple constructed by Herod the Great in honor of Augustus around 20 BCE. Overlooking the Hula Lake, Omrit served as a significant religious and possibly commercial center along a Roman road connecting Scythopolis and Damascus. The site showcases three temple construction phases ranging from the mid 1st century BCE to the 1st century CE, indicating its long-standing religious significance. The temple was destroyed in the Galilee earthquake of 363 CE, after which a Byzantine chapel was erected on the ruins, pointing to continued use into the Byzantine period. Archaeological excavations have revealed temple remains with Corinthian capitals and a street lined with columns, highlighting the Roman architectural influence.