Capernaum

About

Established in the 2nd century BC on the main trade route connecting Damascus and Egypt, Capernaum flourished until the 11th century when it was abandoned. The city plays prominently in the Bible, being cited in all 4 gospels as the home of the Disciple Matthew, and where Jesus lived after leaving Nazareth and worked many of his healing miracles. The ruins of the 3rd century Ancient Synagogue stand atop the original synagogue where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Bread of Life, and performed several miracles. Nearby are the foundations of the home of St. Peter, said to be where Jesus resided while in Capernaum, which became a place of worship after Jesus’ death, and is now protected under a glass floor in a modern Franciscan church.