Capernaum holds immense significance in Christianity, earning the title of “the town of Jesus” due to his teachings and miracles performed there. Two notable sites in Capernaum are the Old Synagogue in the National Park and the lesser-known “Greek Orthodox Monastery of the Twelve Apostles in Capernaum.”
Situated northeast of Capernaum, overlooking the Sea of Galilee, the Greek Orthodox Monastery of the Twelve Apostles stands out with its distinctive red domes and white walls. This monastery is dedicated to the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus, whose appointment is recounted in Mark 3:14-19:
“He appointed twelve that might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, ‘sons of thunder’), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alpheus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.”
Inside the Church
Inside the Greek Orthodox Monastery of the Twelve Apostles, visitors are greeted by a display of traditional Orthodox elements, including intricately designed oil lamps, gilded accents, and an iconostasis. The walls are adorned with stunning frescoes depicting the miracles of Jesus that took place in the region of Galilee. Among these frescoes is the depiction of the miraculous catch of fish, alongside portrayals of Jesus’ apostles and other significant biblical scenes.
One particularly striking feature is the monumental painting of Judgment Day, which is rich in intricate details. This masterpiece includes imagery such as angels guarding the entrance to heaven, representations of Adam and Eve, and figures from biblical lore like Solomon and David. The portrayal of heaven, hell, and the divine judgment is rendered with meticulous attention to Byzantine artistic traditions, showcasing the skill of the artist who created it at the turn of the 21st century.
Basic Information
Church name Greek Orthodox Momentary of Twelve Apostles in Capernaum
Address: Capernaum
Map
Christianity order: Orthodox Greece
Year of build : 1931
Important History
The church was erected at the outset of the 20th century, erected upon the remnants of a Byzantine church. However, following the tumultuous period of the War of Independence from 1948 to 1967, the church fell into disrepair, nestled within the no-man’s land adjacent to the Syrian-Israeli border. It wasn’t until 1969 that the church and monastery were acquired by Patriarch Damianus of Jerusalem and underwent extensive renovations under Greek auspices.
Exemplifying the architectural style of Greek churches, the structure takes the form of a cross, with two prominent main red domes and an additional six smaller domes encircling them. This distinctive design pays homage to traditional Greek ecclesiastical architecture, reflecting the enduring cultural and religious influences in the region.
Arrival options
| Bus lines | To reach the Orthodox church from Jerusalem, you can take a bus to Tiberias. Upon arriving in Tiberias, proceed to Kiryat Shmona by car. Once in Kiryat Shmona, make your way to Mount Beatitudes. From Mount Beatitudes, a leisurely 20-minute walk will lead you to the Orthodox church, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings and historical significance of the site. |
| Car | You must reach Tabgha and then drive northward to Capharnaum. You can park inside the national park and walk 15 minutes on foot to the church. |
Logistic Information
Accessibility: The site is accessible for wheelchair
Opening times 09:00-17:00 daily. Please coordinate a head with the church: 972-(0)-53-2840991 or check via e-mail: [email protected].
Telephone number 972-(0)4-6722282.
972 (0)4 6722282
Toilet: available
Nearby site activities
Capernaum National Park and Tabgha churches.
My Experience
The church courtyard offers a delightful ambiance reminiscent of Greece, with its charming architecture and serene atmosphere. As you stroll through the courtyard, you may be greeted by the sight of a majestic peacock, adding a touch of natural beauty to the surroundings. The architecture of the church itself is truly unique, blending traditional Greek elements with artistic flair. Each detail, from the intricate carvings to the vibrant colors, tells a story of faith and creativity. If you’re someone who appreciates distinctive and aesthetically pleasing places of worship, you’ll find this church to be a true gem. It’s a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of both architectural design and natural surroundings, creating a memorable experience for visitors.
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