Lost City Linked to Jesus Discovered Near the Sea of Galilee

Archaeologists are confident they have found a lost city connected to the ministry of Jesus Christ. The discovery follows a decade of excavation at the site of El-Araj near the Sea of Galilee. The academic director of the El-Araj Excavation Project, Mordechai Aviam, is certain about the find.

Work began in 2016 to explore the area believed to be Bethsaida, which is near Capernaum, a significant location in Jesus’ life. Bethsaida is known as the home of apostles Peter, Andrew, and Philip.

Throughout the excavations, evidence has supported the idea that El-Araj is indeed the biblical Bethsaida. Several miracles attributed to Jesus took place here, including healing a blind man and the feeding of 5,000 people. Over time, researchers have uncovered traces of an ancient Jewish fishing community and city from the Roman era.

This year’s excavation expanded into new sections, revealing more Roman period structures and pottery. Steven Notley, a biblical scholar and director of the project, shared insights with Fox News Digital. Excavators also found over 200 coins, contributing to dating the ancient settlement.

Researchers conducted a larger survey thanks to a fire, giving them clarity on the site’s size, which is at least 15 acres. We thought the wildfire was tragic, but it allowed us to assess the overall size of the settlement. Notley explained.

The team has unearthed several key artifacts. These include Jewish stone vessels, remnants of a Roman bathhouse, and a Byzantine basilica. The basilica contains an inscription linked to the Apostle Peter.

Notley stated the identification of finds typical of both Jewish and Roman settlements. Key discoveries include fishing weights, stone vessels, and remains of urban development. The evidence aligns with the transformation from a Jewish village to a Roman city. Notley said.

No single artifact has pinpointed El-Araj as Bethsaida. Instead, consistent findings across excavation seasons have built the case. Significant finds such as oil lamps and other artifacts further strengthen the identification.

An important inscription referencing the Apostle Peter adds weight to the claim. We can’t be completely sure Peter lived here, but the findings are compelling. Notley said. Despite ongoing digs, the connection to Jesus’ miraculous activities makes Bethsaida significant.

According to Notley, About a quarter of Jesus’ disciples hailed from Bethsaida. It’s a site deeply intertwined with his life and ministry. Researchers remain committed to uncovering more about this historical area.