Getting ready for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land? Sites holy to the Christian faith circle the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret), creating a spiritual hot-spot for pilgrims flocking to Israel from around the world. Between the stunning churches, sites and attractions and the tourist-friendly Kinneret, the Galilee region is THE place to focus your next Israel tour.

Here are some of the most significant places in the ministry of Jesus Christ that surround the Sea of Galilee. You can head to where pilgrims reach new spiritual heights in the place Jesus called home after being expelled from Nazareth.

Capernaum, a journey of spiritual discovery

Begin your journey of discovery in the old fishing village of Capernaum, now known as Capernaum National Park. You’ll be amazed by the mix of old and new in this sometimes called “Town of Jesus.” Here, a magnificent synagogue, detailed in intricate mosaics from the 4th Century, stands in coexistence with sites holy to the Christian faith, such as the “House of St. Peter.” An apparent meeting place for early Christians, the “House of St. Peter” lies in ruins, a bed for the modern Franciscan Church, shaped like a ship with a sleek glass floor, built directly above. The octagonal Church of the Beatitudes is also nearby, built on a small hill overlooking the sea and honoring virtues supposedly said by Jesus during his epic Sermon on the Mount in breathtaking mosaic.

Tabgha Garden, stunning, spiritual significance

Just a stone’s throw away from the Mount of Beatitudes where the wondrous church rests is Tabgha Garden, a fruitful area on the Sea of Galilee’s northern shore and home to many sites significant to the Christian faith. Visit the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes, complete with the renowned mosaic portraying the miraculous event. Alternatively, head to the Church of St. Peter’s Primacy, the ship-shaped “Duc In Altum” Church, an ancient Byzantine monastery in impressive ruins in Kursi National Park.

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Mount Tabor, a view that inspires true belief

Climb to nearly 2,000 feet above sea level to visit Mount Tabor, the supposed site of the Transfiguration, where Jesus took Peter, James and John, his disciples, to see an apparition of Moses and Elijah. Tour the remains of fifth-century shrines, take in the breathtaking view of the Gilboa, Carmel and Golan mountains and step inside the 20th century Church of the Transfiguration, where three chapels and an altar withstand time and a golden mosaic captures the attention of all eyes in wonder.

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For a genuinely uplifting religious experience, immerse yourself in baptismal waters along the Jordan River. You can don white robes and renew your connection to spirituality and holy sacrament, before heading off to engage in the fun and fast-paced adjacent “Holyland Sailing” sports attractions – keeping your adrenaline pumping and your heart bursting with holy love.

There are so many stunning, holy places in the Galilee region. The above is really just a taste. Contact Gordon Tours to book your Galilee pilgrimage and get an up-close and truly spiritual tour of a religiously significant area.