Capharnaüm (Israel)

- - Capernaum is a village from the ancient era whose ruins are on the shores of the sea of Galilee.

I have to admit that I went there out of simple curiosity because my French friends use the word "capernaum" to describe something that is a real mess and I wanted to see if there was any connection with the site. Once there, I didn't really get any answers. On the other hand, some of the ruins are very well preserved (particularly a synagogue and the house of Saint Peter). So you can get an idea of what a village in the region would have looked like at the time. And I think this alone means Capernaum is worth a visit during a trip to Israel.

Capernaum offers you a step back in time: amongst the remains of the synagogue, the House of St Peter and the Byzantine church it's the perfect occasion for learning about past civilisations. The Greek Orthodox monastery, the Franciscan convent and the Catholic church remind us that these are still places of worship. Mass also still takes place in this extremely modern UFO-shaped church, interesting on an architectural basis for those who haven't necessarily come with a religious agenda. At the same time it's difficult to escape religion in this country where it constitutes a part of your identity!

A little prayer by the lakeside? You can also simply admire the view!

I found that a guided tour around Capernaum helps to better understand the place and its complexities.

Capernaum offers you a step back in time: amongst the remains of the synagogue, the House of St Peter and the Byzantine church it's the perfect occasion for learning about past civilisations. The Greek Orthodox monastery, the Franciscan convent and the Catholic church remind us that these are still places of worship. Mass also still takes place in this extremely modern UFO-shaped church, interesting on an architectural basis for those who haven't necessarily come with a religious agenda. At the same time it's difficult to escape religion in this country where it constitutes a part of your identity!

A little prayer by the lakeside? You can also simply admire the view!

I found that a guided tour around Capernaum helps to better understand the place and its complexities.