Mount of Beatitudes

From Tabgha, one can ascend the Mount of the Beatitudes where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount.

Overlooking the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee, the Mount offers a view of the northern part of the lake and across to the cliffs of the Golan Heights on the other side.

The eight-sided Church of the Beatitudes, built near the top of the mount is a little way up the hill from the ruins of a Byzantine church that was erected in the 4th century and was used until the 7th century. The modern church is an octagonal building with colonnaded cloisters, blending into the surrounding environment.The eight sides of the church represent the eight beatitudes, and these are also shown in Latin in the upper windows.  The centrally placed altar is surmounted by a slender arch of alabaster and onyx. Around it, the seven virtues (justice, charity, prudence, faith, fortitude, hope and temperance) are depicted by symbols in the mosaic floor. Adjacent to the church is a Christian center and monastery.

Church of the Beatitudes and Monastery from the Sea of Galilee.

Church of the Twelve Apostles

Visible from the ruins at Capernaum, the Church of the Twelve Apostles is situated on a mountain overlooking the Sea of Galilee.  It is a small, cross-shaped building with white walls. In contrast to the walls are the red domes—two central domes surrounded by six smaller ones, each topped by a cross.

Built in 1931, it stands close to the shore, in a secluded haven of lush trees and gardens. Inside, the walls and ceilings are covered with impressive frescoes depicting biblical themes.

It is also known as the Church of the Seven Apostles — a reference to Jesus’ post- appearance by the Sea of Galilee to seven of his disciples after his resurrection

Built in 1931, it stands close to the shore, in a secluded haven of lush trees and gardens. Inside, the walls and ceilings are covered with impressive frescoes depicting biblical themes.

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