By the Sea of Galilee
Most of the ministry of Jesus was centered in the area of Galilee. The name "Galilee" (literally, HaGalilee) means "the circle." The name probably reflects the circular shape of the lake. There was a saying among the Jews that went, "If you want to be spiritual, go to Jerusalem; if you want to be rich, go to Galilee." This is because Galilee enjoyed a booming economy. Fishermen plied its lake. Farms lay scattered across its rolling hills and upon the fields of Jezreel. It was to this area that Jesus came to begin his ministry.
Sea or Lake?
Matthew, Mark, and John all refer to the "Sea of Galilee." By contrast, Luke refers to this body of water as a lake. It is only 14 miles at its longest (from north to south).
Galilee Boat
Remeniscent of the boats used by Jesus during his ministry in this area, archaeologists were able to reclaim the remains of this small boat from the bottom of the Sea of Galilee.
Synagogue in Capernaum
Jesus was a familiar face to the synagogue at Capernaum. These 3rd century ruins were built upon the same site as the original synagogue that would have stood here in the days of Jesus.