The Sea of Galilee
The Sea of Galilee is a freshwater lake ringed by gentle hills, and it was the setting for much of Jesus' ministry. To sail its calm waters at first light is to see the landscape of the Gospels almost exactly as it was.
Why it matters
The Sea of Galilee is where the Gospels place many of the most beloved episodes of Jesus' public ministry. Along these shores He called His first disciples, and here tradition sets the calming of the storm and the walking on water. The lakeside town of Capernaum became the base of His Galilean ministry, and its ancient synagogue and the house traditionally identified with Simon Peter can still be seen.
On the hillside above, the Mount of Beatitudes marks where He is remembered to have delivered the Sermon on the Mount. At Tabgha, churches commemorate the multiplication of the loaves and fishes and the restoration of Peter. Unlike the crowded lanes of the Old City, Galilee offers open water, birdsong and quiet, and many pilgrims describe it as the most peaceful part of the whole journey.
Explore pilgrimage toursHighlights of the Sea of Galilee
- A wooden boat ride across the lake
- Capernaum, with its ancient synagogue and the House of Peter
- The Mount of Beatitudes, site of the Sermon on the Mount
- Tabgha, the Church of the Multiplication and the Primacy of Peter
- The Jordan River baptismal site at Yardenit
- The lakeside town of Tiberias
Good to know. Galilee is warm and green in spring, while summer is hot. Mornings on the water are calm and cooler. Modest dress is appropriate at the churches around the lake.
Fits. A highlight of northern-leg and full-country pilgrimage packages.
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