The city of Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom, Israel, for about 200 years. Much of the work of Elijah and Elisha took part in or near this city.<BR>Samaria was named for Shemer, the original owner of the land, from whom King Omri of Israel bought it. Because of its wicked kings, Samaria was always associated with idolatry. Western gate of Samaria.