Tabgha Israel
City:
Tabgha
State, Province, Region, or District:
Northern District, Galilee Region
Country:
Israel
Overview
Tabgha is located on the north-western shore of the Sea of Galilee in Israel. Two miles (3.2 kilometers) west of Capernaum is what Josephus referred to as the "well of Capernaum.” The site is also a popular fishing spot with locals because of its famous "seven springs." Historically, it was a Palestinian village that has since been depopulated. The village population was expelled in 1948 during Operation Matateh ("Broom").
The area holds significant religious importance and is closely associated with key events from the Christian tradition. Tabgha is traditionally regarded as the site where the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes took place (Mark 6:30-46) and the location of the third resurrection appearance of Jesus following his Crucifixion (John 21:1-24).
Although Tabgha is marked by the Church of the Multiplication and widely accepted as the traditional site of the miracle, there are other locations that are supported by historical and geographical evidence. Notably, Kinar Beach and the desolate plains on the eastern side of the Sea of Galilee are considered by some scholars to be strong, if not more logical, candidates for the site where the miracle occurred.
Tabgha has been linked by some to be the location for the calling of the disciples. It is believed that here Jesus walked along the shore and called out to Simon Peter and Andrew who were casting their nets into the lake (Mark 1:16-18). Continuing to walk along the shore, Jesus saw two other brothers, James and John, who were preparing their nets with their father Zebedee (Mark 1:19-20). Jesus called all of these men to follow Him.
Alternate Names
Tabgha; Tabcha; Ein Sheva; Heptapegon; el-Oreme; En Sheva; 'En Sheva; et-Tabgha
Geography & Location
The area is located at the north-west corner of the Sea of Galilee, on the side of the ancient road from Tiberias to Damascus. It sits at the foot of the Mount of Beatitudes, a little less 2 miles (3 kilometers) south-west of Capernaum.
Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information
Biblical Significance
Architecture
Tabgha's architecture is anchored by the Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes and the smaller, quaint Church of the Primacy of St. Peter. See the pages for those sites for more detailed architecture information.
Biblical & Historical References
Although disputed by historical and geographical evidence, Tabgha is traditionally regarded as the site where the miracle of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes took place (Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:31-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-14).
Spiritual Lessons and Application
See the pages dedicated to the Miracle of the Loaves and Fishes and the Post-Resurrection Appearance for applicable spiritual lessons and applications.
Etymology
The site's name is derived from the Greek name Heptapegon ("seven springs").
Planning a Visit
Disclaimer: The information provided below may not be current. Travel details, entry requirements, and business operations are subject to frequent change due to holidays, seasonal fluctuations, maintenance, staffing levels, weather, and safety considerations. Always double-check with official sources before you go.
Places of Interest
Church of the Multiplication of the Loaves and Fishes
Virtual Visit
Evidence of ancient boating activity at Tabgha is found in the recently discovered harbor on the shore. Visible when the water level is -693.89 feet (-211.50 meters) or lower, the curved western breakwater was 200 feet (61 meters) long. Another 130-foot (40-meter) breakwater ran perpendicular to the shore and protected the 100-foot (30-meter) wide basin which was entered from the east.