Sea of Galilee

Sea of Galilee

The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Tiberias or the Kinneret, is a freshwater lake and a splendid geographical wonder nestled among beautiful rural agricultural communities. It is known because of its importance in the New Testament writings. The entire region of Galilee is famous because it is the place where Jesus lived. The Sea of Galilee is among the first areas to be settled in the Land of Israel. Some of the first pioneer settlements in Israel are located here, along with archaeological ruins. An important economic segment is tourism around the Sea of Galilee. Both local and foreign tourists are attracted to the historical and religious sites in the region. The Sea of Galilee is an attraction for Christian pilgrims who come to Israel to see the places where, according to the New Testament, Jesus performed his miracles. The Jesus Trail is a 64-kilometer Christian pilgrimage trail in Galilee. It is a web of footpaths, roads, and bike paths that connect sites central to the lives of Jesus and his disciples. Its terminus is Capernaum on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, the site of Jesus' teachings. Another major attraction is the place where the waters of the Sea of Galilee flow into the Jordan River, where thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come each year to be baptized. The lake and its immediate surroundings have been recognized as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International for supporting populations of Black Francolin and non-breeding Griffon Vultures, and many wintering waterfowl including Marbled Teal, Great Crested Grebes, Grey Herons, Great White Egrets, Great Cormorants and Black-headed Gulls.