The Forum of Susita (Hippos) is more than just an open square; it's a masterclass in Roman logistics and engineering. Here is the breakdown of what makes this space so unique:
- Ancient "Barcodes" and Logistics You were spot on about the markings on the stones! Recent research confirms these carved symbols were the "barcodes" of the ancient world.
The Piecework System: Stonemasons were paid by the job. Since marking every single slab was too time-consuming, they used a clever shortcut.
The "Pack" Method: A wagon would be loaded with a stack of basalt slabs. The mason would carve his mark only on the top stone.
The Tally: When the delivery arrived at the Forum, the site foreman would count the marked stones and multiply them by the standard number of slabs per "pack" to calculate the pay for the workers' guild.
- Engineering Precision in Basalt Take a close look at the pavement under your feet.
The Durability: These basalt slabs have stayed almost perfectly level for nearly 2,000 years.
The Skill: Basalt is incredibly hard and difficult to work with, yet the gaps between these stones are minimal. It's a testament to the high level of engineering accuracy in the Roman period.
- The "Stone Game" Strategy You can see the classic Roman design philosophy here:
Function vs Fashion: The functional parts—the road and foundations—are made of tough, local grey basalt.
Status Symbols: The decorative parts—the columns and capitals—are made of expensive, imported white marble and granite. It was the ultimate way to show that even on a remote mountain, Rome had the resources to bring in luxury from across the sea.
- A Snapshot of the End The massive granite columns, arranged in a "fan" shape, are a haunting reminder of the 749 AD earthquake.
The Final Second: They fell simultaneously, turning this bustling political and social hub into ruins in just a few seconds.
The Porticos: On the edges, you can see where covered walkways (porticos) once stood, allowing citizens to talk politics and trade while staying protected from the sun or rain.
Imagine the perfect spring morning in Israel—the sun is warm but not yet "blasting" you, and the air smells like fresh wildflowers. It's the absolute best time to grab the keys and head to the eastern side of the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee).
First Stop: Kursi & The Views Start your day at Kursi. It's this massive Byzantine monastery ruin where the vibe is just... super chill. You can walk across ancient mosaics and literally feel the history. But don't stay too long because the drive up the mountain is even better. Make sure to pull over at Mitzpe Nukieb. On a clear day, the view is insane—you see the whole blue "bowl" of the Kinneret stretched out from Tiberias to the Golan Heights. It's one of those "stop and just stare" moments.
The Main Event: Susita (Hippos) Then, you've got the crown jewel: Susita. It's like a ghost city sitting on a hill. They call it the "Pompeii above the lake." You'll walk through the old Roman forum and see giant columns that were knocked down by an earthquake 1,200 years ago and just... stayed there. It's got this wild mix of ancient Roman vibes and old Israeli military outposts.
Trains and Hummus When you head back down, swing by the old Tzemach train station. It's been restored and feels like a movie set from the early 1900s—back when trains ran all the way from Haifa to Damascus.
Finally, once you're officially "toured out," hit up Hummus Eliyahu at the Tzemach junction. Trust me, a warm bowl of creamy hummus with olive oil, fluffy pita, and a solid cup of coffee is the only way to end a trip like this.
Pro tip: Go right now while it's spring. The Golan is bright green, and everything looks like a masterpiece.
