“Capernaum” – Jesus town

The ancient village of Capernaum, often called “Jesus’ Town”, lies just south of the Greek Orthodox Church in Capernaum National Park. Settlement in the area began as early as the 2nd century BCE, with continuous life through the Roman era—the period of Jesus’ ministry—and into the Byzantine period, until a powerful earthquake in 749 CE destroyed it.

In 1838, American biblical archaeologist Edward Robinson, known as the “Father of Biblical Geography”, identified the ruins as the biblical Capernaum.

German archaeologists Heinrich Kohl and Carl Watzinger began excavating the site in 1905. Two years later, the Franciscan Order, founded in 1209, continued their work.

Among their most significant discoveries, they unearthed an ancient Jewish synagogue, likely built atop the one where Jesus taught. In nearby Magdala, archaeologists also uncovered another synagogue—possibly another place where Jesus preached.

The name “Kfar Nachum” (Hebrew for “Village of Comfort or consolidation”) reflects its biblical and spiritual identity. According to Christian tradition, this is the place where Jesus lived—most likely in the house of St. Peter—and taught in the synagogue for at least two years. It is also the site of many miracles, including the healing of a man possessed by an unclean spirit.

In Luke 4:31-36:
“31 He went down to Capernaum, a city in Galilee, and was teaching them on the sabbath. 32 They were astounded at his teaching, because he spoke with authority. 33 In the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon, and he cried out with a loud voice, 34 “Let us alone! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” 35 But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” When the demon had thrown him down before them, he came out of him without having done him any harm. 36 They were all amazed and kept saying to one another, “What kind of utterance is this? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and out they come!”.

Today, modern pilgrims visit the Church of St. Peter in Capernaum, built in 1990. This unique church stands above the remains of a 5th-century octagonal church, which builders had constructed over what tradition identifies as St. Peter’s home—widely regarded as the first Christian house of worship.

Mount Arbel – Just Outside Tiberias

Continuing our journey through Tiberias’ must-see sites, we made our way to Mount Arbel National Park, just a 10-minute drive south of the city. Mount Arbel is a breathtaking mountain rising 390 meters above the Sea of Galilee, offering a 360-degree panoramic view unlike any other in the region.

To the east, you’ll gaze out over the shimmering Sea of Galilee; to the west, the rolling hills of the Upper Galilee unfold before you. Looking south, the view opens toward Karnaim Hittin—the plateau where the pivotal Battle of Hattin took place in 1187, when Saladin defeated the Crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem, leading to over 700 years of Muslim rule in the region. In the north, during winter months, you can spot the snow-capped peaks of the Golan Heights—a spectacular sight.

The “Carob Tree View”

Mount Arbel lacks much greenery, but one lone carob tree stands out as an iconic landmark in the landscape. Located at the scenic “Carob View” point, this tree stands resilient and visible from afar. Mount Arbel doesn’t offer much greenery, but a single carob tree rises as a striking and iconic feature in the landscape.

To reach it, follow a short 5-minute walk along the black trail from the park entrance. Though modest in size, the carob tree—and the vista it overlooks—offers a moment of quiet beauty and a powerful symbol of nature’s endurance.

Susita coexisted with nearby Tiberias from the 1st century CE. While Tiberias served as a major Jewish cultural center, Susita was part of the Decapolis—a group of ten Greco-Roman cities that embraced a non-Jewish, Hellenistic lifestyle under Roman rule. The remains uncovered here include all the hallmarks of a Roman city: a forum, basilica, public baths, churches, an odeon (small theater), and more.

Excavations began in 2000 and have continued steadily since, revealing layers of urban life, architecture, and art. Today, the site is not only a historical treasure but also a haven for nature lovers, especially between May and July, when colorful bee-eater birds nest along the slopes.

Still relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, Susita is one of the Sea of Galilee region’s best-kept secrets—a magical blend of history, landscape, and serenity.

The Horns of Hattin reenacted battle of 1187

The Horns of Hattin (Hebrew: Karnei Hittin) is an extinct volcano in the Lower Galilee, near Mount Arbel and right beside Nabi Shu’ayb’s tomb—a sacred Druze site believed to be the resting place of Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law.

During the Crusader period, the site held little importance and stood deserted. But on July 4, 1187, history was made here: after a grueling 25 km march in just 48 hours under the blazing summer sun from Tzippori near Nazareth, the Crusader armies clashed with Saladin’s forces, advancing from the Jordan River crossings by the Sea of Galilee south of Tzemach. The Crusaders were decisively defeated, with the surviving knights fleeing to the southern summit, where they ultimately surrendered.

By tradition, the Crusader cavalry rode into battle behind the True Cross—the very relic Jesus was crucified on, later discovered by Helena in 4th-century Jerusalem. But during the clash with Saladin, it was captured by his forces and vanished forever.

The Battle of Hattin marked the beginning of the downfall of the Crusader kingdom in the Holy Land. Today, every July 4th, the historic clash is reenacted to honor this turning point in history. Tickets cost 40 NIS per adult and must be purchased in advance, with entry through Kibbutz Lavi.

Villa Europe 1917 – Tiberias

Last but definitely not least, a few words about the hotel we stayed in during our visit to Tiberias: Villa Europa 1917 — a true hidden gem.

This beautifully restored boutique hotel, located in the historic heart of Tiberias, blends authentic early 20th-century European charm with modern luxury. Just 200 meters from the Sea of Galilee’s waterfront and boardwalk, the hotel offers fabulous rooms, excellent cuisine, and a warm, historic atmosphere that instantly draws you in.

A historic building first opened as a luxury hotel in 1917, the property changed hands in the 1930s when the Ovad family of Tiberias acquired it. After flourishing for decades, the building eventually fell into disuse—until Zohar, a family descendant, took on the mission of restoring it. After five years of careful renovation and preservation, the team restored the hotel to its former glory.

The hotel’s kosher restaurant serves an outstanding breakfast, blending French classics with international flair, including a surprising touch of Japanese sushi. We found the food simply exceptional.

Please note: Since our visit, the hotel has been updated and is now tailored to guests observing Jewish traditions. It is therefore an ideal choice for those who keep kosher. Guests are kindly requested to follow guidelines regarding Shabbat and holiday observance, as well as modest dress in public areas.

Scots Hotel

We also highly recommend one of Tiberias’ top overnight stays—the exceptional Scots Hotel, perfectly located by the heart of the city’s promenade. This remarkable property features the renowned Saint Urban Wine Cellar & Bar, a luxurious Spa & Lakeview Wellness Center, the elegant Torrance Restaurant, a swimming pool, and a beachfront garden with uninterrupted views of the Sea of Galilee.

A true old-school classic—in the best possible way.