Capernaum

In May 2018 I will be taking a group on a 14 day trip to the Holy Land. During this trip we will visit the Galilee region and Capernaum, a city where Jesus lived for several years. This city on the shores of the Sea of Galilee is an interesting place to visit. The site is maintained by the Franciscans, who have added walkways and benches and maintained the landscape so the story of Jesus’ residence can be told without too many modern intrusions.

Gate at the Franciscan Monastery of Capernaum

During our visit to Capernaum, we will enter the archaeological site through gates situated by a Catholic church. Once on the property we will be seated on shaded benches where our tour leaders will explain what can be seen at the site and share associated Bible stories so we can take away a memorable experience.

Shade trees which protect seating area of Capernaum

From the benches we will be directed into a fourth century synagogue constructed from imported limestone. Limestone was chosen for the exterior of the Synagogue to give a white (pure) appearance in a village constructed mostly out of the black basalt rock, which was easily available in the region. The fourth century building is well-maintained and enables the visitor to walk within and understand construction and practices in ancient places of worship. Tall pillars and an intact anterior provide photo opportunities and an ambiance to the visit.

Anterior of the Capernaum Synagogue

On the south side of the Synagogue, a portion of the earlier basalt synagogue has been uncovered where visitors are able to see a portion of the building in which Jesus and the disciples worshipped.

Remains of a first century synagogue at Capernaum

Outside the Synagogue, we will walk through a large area of foundational ruins. Many of the foundations are several feet in height and display steps and other features which will help us visualize the city Jesus called home (Matthew 9:1)

Ruins of Capernaum from the Synagogue

Over one area of ruins we will be able to enter a twentieth century church which sits above a residence believed to be the home of Peter’s mother-in-law. The modern church has a glass floor which allows visitors to see foundations of a first century home and a fifth century church. Diagrams give explanation of the existing foundations.

Looking across ruins of Capernaum to the new octagonal church

Beyond the ruins we will be able to walk down to the Sea of Galilee. We will visualize the beaches from which Peter, Andrew, James, and John departed on their fishing excursions. These shores are also the place recorded in Matthew 4 where Jesus meets Peter and says, “Come, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”

Looking from Capernaum across the Sea of Galilee

On our trip within Galilee we will see Capernaum from several different vantage points. We will see the village from our boat ride on the Sea of Galilee, from the top of Mount Arbel, and if we strain our eyes from Kibbutz Ma’agan, where we will spend three nights. Once we walk through the village of Capernaum in Galilee, each sighting will give us a new perspective as we discover the shores along which Jesus often walked.

A view of Capernaum from the top of Mt. Arbel

If you would like to join us on our 14 day trip to the Holy Land click this link. To sign up for the trip click here. I hope you will travel with us during our 14 day trip to the Holy Land in May 2018.