Capernaum Mount of Beatitudes
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Capernaum and the Mount of Beatitudes
are two distinct but closely located biblical sites on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee, central to Jesus' ministry. Both are popular pilgrimage destinations in northern Israel and are open to visitors.
Capernaum: "His Own City"
Capernaum was the center of Jesus' public ministry in the Galilee region and is referred to in the Bible as "his own city".
- Significance: Jesus chose this fishing village as his home base after leaving Nazareth, where he lived with the family of the disciple Peter. He performed numerous miracles here, including healing Peter's mother-in-law and a paralyzed man, and casting out a demon in the local synagogue.
- What to See: The site features impressive archaeological ruins of the ancient town, including a well-preserved 1st-century synagogue where Jesus likely taught, and the remains of what is believed to be the house of Peter, over which a modern church is suspended.
- Visiting Information: Capernaum is open daily, usually from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (hours may vary by season/day), and has an entrance fee.
Mount of Beatitudes: Site of the Sermon
The Mount of Beatitudes is a serene, picturesque hill overlooking the Sea of Galilee, traditionally recognized as the location where Jesus delivered his most famous discourse, the Sermon on the Mount.
- Significance: In this sermon, Jesus proclaimed the eight Beatitudes, which outline the fundamental principles of Christian living. The natural, bowl-shaped incline of the hill would have served as a natural amphitheater, allowing a large crowd to hear Jesus' words.
- What to See: The site is home to the elegant, octagonal Church of the Beatitudes, designed by architect Antonio Barluzzi and built in 1938. Each of its eight sides and the inscribed windows represent one of the eight Beatitudes. The surrounding area features beautiful gardens and offers panoramic views of the lake and the Golan Heights.
- Visiting Information: The church and grounds are open daily (typically 8:30 AM-12:00 PM and 2:30 PM-5:00 PM). There is free entrance to the church itself, but a fee is required for the parking lot. Modest dress is expected when entering the church.