Archaeologists have uncovered a portion of an ancient Roman pier on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, a discovery that sheds light on the maritime activities of the region during the time of Jesus. The site, located near Capernaum, a town described in the Bible as the center of Jesus's ministry, includes a pyramid-shaped stone believed to have served as an entrance marker for boats.
The discovery was made possible by falling water levels in the Sea of Galilee, which exposed a section of the Roman-era pier. The structure is built from large stones and features recessed berths where fishing boats would have docked. Experts suggest this harbor may have been used by boats similar to those mentioned in the New Testament.
Capernaum is depicted in the Gospels as the location of numerous miracles performed by Jesus, including healing the sick and casting out spirits. The town is also associated with several other biblical accounts, such as Jesus walking on water and his disciples sailing toward the town when they saw him approaching across the lake.
While there is no direct evidence that Jesus himself used this specific pier, archaeologists believe it represents the type of maritime infrastructure that facilitated travel and activity in the area during his ministry. Dr. Hagay Dvir, a tourist product manager with a background in archaeology, stated that the discovery allows for discussion of Jesus's maritime activity on the Sea of Galilee, not solely his land-based works.
Excavators found two parallel rows of large stones, approximately 10 to 13 feet apart, forming sheltered berths capable of holding two vessels. Archaeologist Father Eugenio Alliata noted that vessels using such a harbor could have accommodated groups the size of Jesus and his apostles.
This finding comes years after the discovery of a first-century fishing boat in 1986 near Kibbutz Ginosar during a drought that lowered the Sea of Galilee's water level. This vessel, known as the "Jesus boat," measured about 27 feet long and was propelled by sail and oars, with carbon-14 dating placing it in the first century. Experts have noted its size is consistent with carrying around 12 people, aligning with biblical accounts.
