Caesarea Maritima holds a significant place in history, with a rich and layered past. Here's a breakdown of key historical events:

Early Beginnings:
It began as a Phoenician settlement known as Straton's Tower.  
Later, it came under Hasmonean rule.  

Herod's Grand Development:
Herod the Great transformed it into a major port city, renaming it Caesarea in honor of Augustus Caesar.  
He oversaw the construction of a large harbor (Sebastos), impressive public buildings, and infrastructure, making it a vital economic and administrative center.  

Roman Period:
Caesarea became the capital of the Roman province of Judea.  
It was the site of important events in early Christian history, including:
The trial of the Apostle Paul.
The conversion of the Roman centurion Cornelius by Peter.  
Pontius Pilate, the Roman prefect of Judaea, resided there.