Simon says: "Let's Tour Magdala"

Simon says: "Let's Tour Magdala"

Walking among the ancient stones of Magdala is like stepping straight into the world of the Gospels.

This remarkable site, on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, was uncovered by accident in 2009 during construction of a new hotel. Archaeologists soon realised they had discovered one of the most significant finds in recent years - a 1st-century Jewish village with a beautifully preserved synagogue from the time of Jesus.

This is the larger of 2 synagogues discovered in the area, which provided archaeologists with new information, that communal Jewish worship was taking place BEFORE the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem!

Within the synagogue, excavators found the famous Magdala Stone, carved with the earliest known depiction of the Temple menorah. This, together with ritual baths (mikva’ot), shops & fish ponds, reveals a thriving Jewish community deeply connected to faith & daily life on the shores of Galilee.

Magdala is widely recognised as the birthplace of Mary Magdalene, one of Jesus’ closest followers. Her name literally means “Mary of Magdala”. For Christian visitors, standing here offers a moving connection to her story; a place where faith, healing & devotion are woven into the very ground beneath your feet.

Magdala just north of Tiberius along the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, was the main base for Josephus – or as he was known at the time, Yosef Ben Matityahu, a military leader in the ill-fated rebellion against the Romans in the Galilee that would culminate in the total destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. References to the extensive fish ponds that were the major source of income for the village, can be found in the writings of Josephus - he is often referred to as "The Samuel Pepys of his time".

The salted fish from Magdala were considered a delicacy in Rome.

🕊️ Whether you have come to visit Israel for archaeology, history or spiritual reflection, Magdala brings the Gospel world vividly to life.

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Ariel photo credit: photo credit Avram Graicer

I’m a licensed tour guide with experience driving & guiding all over Israel in a comfortable 7-seater vehicle & I’m an accredited tour guide for Israel’s National Parks.

I’ve also been certified as the Amazon Tour Guide for online virtual tours in the North of Israel - as well as being a guide for cruise ship passengers coming into Haifa & Ashdod.

My price includes collection from and return to your location, snacks, water & a unique souvenir of your tour.

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Please don't hesitate to be in touch imagineisrael8@gmail.com, or by phone/WhatsApp +972 54 2390412 if I can help plan your visit.