Emmaus mentioned ( (coord. 149-138 in Luke 24:13, and also by Bishop Eusebius (Eus. On.90:15-17), it appears in most Christian and traveler writings of the region, and in many writings of the early Church Fathers.

The Romans called it Nicopolis in 220 AD during the reign of Emperor (Heliogabalus). The map of Madaba shows the city wall, towers, gates, and mountainous nature. Its cathedral, which was destroyed in 529 AD by the Samra tribe, was later rebuilt during the reign of Emperor Justinian, also appears. This cathedral is dedicated to Saint Cleopas Cleopas, and was probably built over the house where he lived.