Capernaum (Kefar Nachum) served as Jesus’ home base during his ministry in the Galilee. There are numerous references to Capernaum in the New Testament including the healing of the Centurion’s servant (Matthew 8:5-13), driving out of a demon (Mark 1:21-26), healing of a paralytic (Mark 2:1-12), clearing of the temple (John 2:12-16), and Jesus preaching in the synagogue (Mark 1:21).
From the 2nd to 4rth century there is evidence of a thriving Christian community in Capernaum. After the Arab conquest around 700 CE the town was destroyed and not further inhabited.
Today the ancient synagogue and the alleged house of St Peter found at Capernaum have been excavated, restored and made into a museum. A large national park was established adjacent to the antiquities to complement the visit experience, as well as docks, allowing visitors to sail from Tiberias and Ein Gev. A paved walking promenade connects Tabgha and Capernaum, and is also the final part of the Jesus Trail.
