Nablus is a Palestinian city in the northern region of the West Bank, approximately 60 kilometers north of Jerusalem.

Located in a strategic position between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim, Nablus is considered the largest commercial and cultural center in Palestine.

Founded by the Roman Emperor, Vespasian in 72 CE as Flavia Neapolis, the city has been ruled by many empires over the course of its almost 2,000-year-long history. In 636 CE, Neapolis, along with most of Palestine, came under the rule of the Islamic Arab Caliphate of Umar Ibn al-Khattab; where its name was changed to the Arabic name of Nablus.

In the heart of Nablus lies the old city consisting of eight major quarters: Yasmina, Qaryun, Aqaba, Qaysariyya, Habala, Faqous, Naser and Gharb. The old city is densely populated with 9000 inhabitants whereas Nablus district is populated with 389,328 inhabitants.

There are two churches, twelve mosques and a Samaritan synagogue in around the densely populated residential areas. The Old City is the home of several mosques and two Turkish baths (Al-Shifa and Al-Hana) as well as a number of historic monuments.

Famous for its Kunafa, soap and busy markets, Nablus is also home to many of Palestine’s industries and commerce. Among the main attractions that Nablus has to offer are Jacob’s well and the town of Sebastia. have also beautiful sites to visit.

Nablus’ rich history lies in its Old City with its distinct stone facades, beautiful architecture, narrow streets and old urban spaces.

Nabulsi soap or sabonnabulsi is a type of castile soap produced only in Nablus and made of three primary ingredients: olive oil, water, and a sodium compound. Since the 10th century, Nabulsi soap has enjoyed a reputation for being a fine product, and has been exported across the Arab world and Europe.

Efforts to preserve this important part of Palestinian and Nabulsi cultural heritage have continued as the number of soap factories continue to decline from thirty in the 19th century to only four today.