12 MUST-SEE SITES IN MAGDALA CROSSROADS OF CHRISTIAN AND JEWISH HISTORY

Transcription

1 12 MUST-SEE SITES IN MAGDALA CROSSROADS OF CHRISTIAN AND JEWISH HISTORY

2 MAGDALA STONE 1 A seven branched Menorah carved into the stone is the oldest carving of the Menorah from the Second Temple ever found. The designs on the stone, according to early analysis, are believed to be a symbolic representation of the Second Temple of Jerusalem. 2

3 ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK 2 In its prime, Magdala was a prominent city along the trade routes surrounding the Galilee. This is reflected in the extensive and well-designed marketplace unearthed by archaeologists. Magdala s bustling fishing industry would have demanded substantial storage, which is exactly what archaeologists uncovered along the edge of the town when they discovered the remains of a large warehouse. 3

4 FIRST CENTURY SYNAGOGUE 3 Photo by IAA The synagogue in Magdala is currently the oldest excavated in Galilee and one of seven from the first century in all of Israel. Since the Bible tells us that Jesus taught throughout the Galilee, it is certain that He taught at and frequented this very spot. 4

5 4MIKVAOT South of the synagogue, a street flanked by buildings with mosaic-painted floors and four rare mikvaot were unearthed. The mikvaot are the earliest in the country that made use of groundwater. 5

6 5 DUC IN ALTUM Duc In Altum draws its name from Luke 5:4 where Jesus instructs Simon Peter to launch into the deep or put out into deep water. This unique structure provides a beautiful environment for personal and group reflection and worship. Already called the most unique spiritual center in the Holy Land, the décor of the Duc In Altum was designed to appeal to the diverse traditions of Christianity while recognizing the Jewish roots of the Christian faith. 6

7 WOMEN S ATRIUM 6 This stunning entry to the Duc In Altum features eight pillars, seven of which are women in the Bible who followed Jesus, while the eighth is in honor of women who love God and live by faith across all time. The women honored are: Mary Magdalene (Luke 8:2) Susana and Joanna, wife of Chuza (Luke 8:3) Mary and her sister Martha (Luke 10:38) Salome, the mother of James and John (Matthew 20:20) Simon Peter s mother-in-law (Matthew 8:15) Mary, wife of Cleophas (John 19:25) Many other women (Mark 15:41) Unmarked pillar 7

8 BOAT CHAPEL 7 With a view of the Sea of Galilee, and a unique boat-shaped altar, this chapel commemorates Jesus preaching from the boat. On May 26, 2014, during his pastoral pilgrimage to the Holy Land, Pope Francis blessed the tabernacle, which now resides on the boat altar. 8

9 8ENCOUNTER CHAPEL Located on the lower level of Duc In Altum is the Encounter Chapel. Built upon the marketplace stones of the first century port, it is modeled after the structure of the Magdala First Century Synagogue. The chapel features a beautiful mural of the encounter between Jesus and the hemorrhaging woman (Mark 5:25 NIV) 9

10 WALKING ON WATER CHAPEL 9 The first of four chapels featuring an expressive mosaic depicting a biblical event near the Sea of Galilee in the Duc In Altum, the Walking on Water Chapel represents the story in Matthew where Peter s faith was tested by walking on water with Jesus. Come, he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, Lord, save me! Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. You of little faith, he said, why did you doubt? (Matthew 14:30-31 NIV) 10

11 FISHERS OF MEN CHAPEL 10 The Fishers of Men Chapel represents another story in Matthew where Jesus Calls His First Disciples. As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. Come, follow me, Jesus said, and I will send you out to fish for people. At once they left their nets and followed him. (Matthew 4:19 NIV) 11

12 MARY MAGDALENE CHAPEL Facing the town of Magdala and Mount Arbel, the Mary Magdalene Chapel reflects the story in Luke 8 of the deliverance of Mary Magdalene. After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out. (Luke 8: 1-2 NIV) 12

13 DAUGTHER OF JAIRUS CHAPEL 12 The Daughter of Jairus Chapel holds great significance because she was the only woman whom Jesus raised from the dead. He took her by the hand and said to her, Talitha koum! (which means Little girl, I say to you, get up! ). Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished. (Mark 5:41 NIV) 13

14 To learn more about what God is doing at Magdala, visit: