UNESCO includes ancient Samaria and Lebanese castles in World Heritage List

The UNESCO World Heritage Committee has made a decision to include two significant archaeological complexes in the World Cultural Heritage List. The decision, made during a meeting in Busan, South Korea, includes the town of Sebastia on the West Bank and five historic castles in the Lebanese region of Jabal Amel.

Sebastia, located near Nablus, has been identified by archaeologists as ancient Samaria – the historical capital of the biblical Kingdom of Israel. The area is exceptionally rich in remains from the Iron Age, as well as the Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic periods. According to Christian and Islamic traditions, the site is also associated with the burial of John the Baptist.

In addition to Sebastia, five castles in Southern Lebanon, located in the Jabal Amel region, have also received the new status. They were selected for their multilayered architectural heritage, which reflects various cultural influences over nine centuries. Some of these sites, including the Beaufort Castle, are already included on the List of World Heritage in Danger.

The decision sparked a sharp reaction from Israel. The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused UNESCO of politicizing cultural heritage and attempting to "erase the Jewish and Christian history" of the region. Israeli authorities emphasized that Sebastia is inaccurately represented, and that the Beaufort Castle in Lebanon is used by the "Hezbollah" group for military purposes, which they claim undermines the site's status as a cultural value.

The Palestinian delegation emphasized that the inclusion of Sebastia is critically important for the preservation of archaeological remains which, under Israeli control, require urgent conservation. UNESCO reviewed the candidacies urgently, highlighting the need to protect these unique historical testimonies.