Sea of Galilee & Nazareth

Overview

The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Tiberias, was the heart of Jesus's ministry, and around it lie the ruins of Capernaum, the Church of the Multiplication and the Church of the Beatitudes. Nazareth is where Jesus grew up, and the Basilica of the Annunciation marks the site where the angel announced the birth to Mary. This region holds irreplaceable spiritual significance for Christians and draws millions of pilgrims from around the world.

History

Nazareth was a small Jewish village in the 1st century and the site of the Annunciation has been venerated since at least the 4th century, when the first church was built there. The present Basilica of the Annunciation, the largest church in the Middle East, was consecrated in 1969 over the earlier Byzantine and Crusader remains. Around the Sea of Galilee, Capernaum was a fishing village that became the base of Jesus's ministry.

Highlights

• •Boating on the Sea of Galilee
• •The old market of Nazareth
• •The Basilica of the Annunciation

Practical tips

• •Dress modestly at religious sites
• •Weekdays are quieter than weekends

Practical information

Best time

March to May, September to November

Tickets

Varies by attraction

Opening hours

Varies by attraction

Local food

Hummus, shakshuka and falafel

Getting around

Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee are reached by bus or rental car; some public transport stops on the Sabbath

Visa

A visa is required. Security screening on entry is thorough, so allow plenty of time and state your purpose of travel honestly.

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