Israel: The Magdala Center

About Magdala:

Although buried just a few inches beneath the surface of the ground, this archaeological dig was only discovered in 2009. The village (named Migdal in Hebrew), is said to be the home of Mary Magdalene, and contains the walls of a synagogue dating back to the time of Jesus.

Located on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, it is the closest synagogue to Capernaum, so it is likely that Jesus preached here on many occasions.

About the Magdala Center:

One of the most important discoveries is the “Magdala Stone”, which depicts the oldest carved image of the Second Temple’s seven-branched menorah ever found.

The land here is owned by the Legionaries of Christ and they run the center. Guides are available to give you a history and take you around the site.

Masses are said here. The altar, carved like a boat as you can see in the photo, is one of the main focal points of the center.