The well in the crypt of St. Photini Church at the edge of Nablus, is said by Biblical scholars to be on the plot of ground the patriarch Jacob bought -  “the land on which he had pitched his tent” (Genesis 33:19). Father Lustinos Mamalos (right) was the driving force that organised the rebuilding of the Greek Orthodox Church at the site.

The well is mentioned in the New Testament as the site where the Samaritan woman gave Jesus water to drink, (John 4:7-15). The woman is called Photini in Greek Orthodox tradition. Samaritans still live on nearby Mount Grizim, the site of their ancient temple.