Capernaum: Discover Jesus’ Second Home
Recognized as one of Israel’s most prominent archaeological sites, Capernaum is an ancient fishing village situated along the shore of Galilee. Known as “the town of Jesus,” Capernaum is filled with artifacts from the 1st to the 6th centuries, such as the remains of homes and the ruins of two synagogues.
Archaeological discoveries have included what are believed to be the remains of Saint Peter’s house, where Jesus would have lived during his three years there. A white limestone synagogue stands on the same ground where a black basalt synagogue once stood, which is believed to be the location where Jesus taught. Today, the remains of Saint Peter’s house have been transformed into a Byzantine octagonal church. On your visit, you can admire the glass-domed shrine hovering above it, giving you a look at early Christian life.
Capernaum was built in the Hasmonean period in the 2nd century BC along a trade route between Damascus and Egypt. Basalt, a dark volcanic rock, was used to construct most of the walls and foundations in Capernaum. Imported white limestone was used for the construction of the synagogue, creating a sharp contrast between white and black stone. The city’s layout and buildings, which remain today, indicate that the people of Capernaum thrived as a fishing community deeply connected to their Christian faith.
On your visit to Capernaum, you can feel connected to your faith by exploring the village’s ancient ruins and walking on the same ground where Jesus performed miracles.
