Joppa (Jaffa)
Joppa (modern Jaffa) was a costal town.
Overview
The ancient Canaanite city was governed, under Persian rule, by Phoenicians from Tyre. It later became a Seleucid port until it was taken over by the Maccabean rebels (1 Maccabees x.76, xiv.5) and the refounded Hasmoneans kingdom.
According to the Acts of Apostles, Peter preached in Jaffa.
During the Jewish War, Jaffa was captured and burned by Cestius Gallus and its inhabitants massacred. Since pirates operated from the rebuilt port, Vespasian razed the city and erected a citadel in its place, installing a Roman garrison there.
A fairly unimportant Byzantine locality, Jaffa did not have a bishop until the fifth century CE.
In 636 Jaffa was conquered by Arabs. Its importance grew even since, without knowing decline.
Joppa in ancient sources
Acts of Apostles
Acts.9.36 -- Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. Acts.9.38 Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, “Please come to us without delay.” Acts.9.42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. Acts.9.43 And he stayed in Joppa for many days with one Simon, a tanner. Acts.10.5 And now send men to Joppa and bring one Simon who is called Peter. Acts.10.8 and having related everything to them, he sent them to Joppa. Acts.10.23 So he invited them in to be his guests.The next day he rose and went away with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa accompanied him. Acts.10.32 Send therefore to Joppa and ask for Simon who is called Peter. He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.’ Acts.11.5 “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision, something like a great sheet descending, being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to me. Acts.11.13 And he told us how he had seen the angel stand in his house and say, ‘Send to Joppa and bring Simon who is called Peter;