PA daily article recognizes that ruins were site of palace of ancient Jewish king Omri
Headline: “From Herod to amateur football players, Sebastia’s struggle continues.”
“Basilica Square is the most famous ancient square of the village [of Sebastia, which is situated] at the peak of a mountain isolated from the surrounding mountains…
It was from here that Herod, who ruled Sebastia, directed the affairs of the region… Two tourists ascend a small hill and pass from Basilica Square, the center of Herod’s rule, to the palace of King Omri on the acropolis – which is the upper, fortified part of the city.”
“Basilica Square is the most famous ancient square of the village [of Sebastia, which is situated] at the peak of a mountain isolated from the surrounding mountains…
It was from here that Herod, who ruled Sebastia, directed the affairs of the region… Two tourists ascend a small hill and pass from Basilica Square, the center of Herod’s rule, to the palace of King Omri on the acropolis – which is the upper, fortified part of the city.”