BETHSAIDA

Bethsaida is located at the delta of the upper Jordan river, before it enters the Sea of Galilee, about 4km northeast of Capernaum. The area is situated at the crossing of the ancient trade route. Many ruined villages can be found in the area. According to recent excavations, Khirbet et-Tel on the Regional Rd 888, is most probably the site of the Biblical Bethsaida. 

In the New Testament
  
Bethsaida is referred to in conjunction with two of Jesus’s miracles: the healing of the blind man (Mk 8) and the first feeding of over five thousand who came to listen to Him teaching and experienced his healing (Mk 6 and Lk 9).

Ruins of a fisherman's house in Bethsaida

The town is also known as the birthplace of some of the disciples, Andrew, Peter and Philip (Jn 1 and 12).

Recent excavations on the site uncovered several interesting buildings and provide pilgrims with a proper insight in this important town.

How to get there

From Capernaum: Travel to Bethsaida in an eastern direction on Route 87. Cross the Jordan River and turn left onto Reg Rd 888 at Beit Saida crossing. Drive northwards for about 3km and turn into the site on the left of the road.