Sea Of Galilee
ÂSea of Galilee flows through Great Rift Valley which was caused by separation of Arabian Plates and African plates. Underground springs feed this lake and the main source is Jordan River. The location of the fresh water lake was very much subjected to various earth quakes and volcanic activities in the past. This is evident from the formation of basalt and igneous rocks found in the site of Galilee.
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The Galilee land connected Egypt with various empires of the north. Greeks, Romans and Hasmoneans formed different types of flourishing settlements on the banks of the lake. Well known historian of the first century, Flavious Josephus was very much impressed by the lake and called it the ambition of nature. According to his notes, the lake was a fishing area and he reported over 230 boats working everyday.
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The Ministry of Jesus was formed on the Sea of Galilee. Around that time, many settlements and villages are formed around the lake area, which flourished. Sermon on the Mount, a popular teaching episode of Jesus was given on the hill that was overlooking the Galilee Lake. Most of the achievements and miracles of Jesus were believed to have happened on the lake. It is because of these mythological reasons that Sea of Galilee is a popular holy destination.
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Jerusalem Talmud was complied on the lake area after Jewish people revolted against the Romans. During Byzantine Empire, the lake was declared as a major destination for Christian pilgrimage trips because of the significant role played by the lake in the life of Jesus. After that, tourism industry flourished in Galilee region. During medieval times, the lake again lost its control when Byzantines fell. In 1909, Jewish pioneers again built villages in Galilee after which Sea of Galilee gained significance. Tourism is the most important activity in Kinneret today and many historical and spiritual sites are located around the lake.
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The site at which Kinneret"s water flows into Jordan River is considered sacred and many pilgrims from all around the world come here for baptizing. The lake is rich in flora and fauna and it had been a site of commercial fishery for over two millenniums. Varieties of reeds and fishes can be found at this lake, which attract thousands of tourists every year.
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Mount of Arbel provides a spectacular view point of the lake and surrounding settlements. From the peak, a steep trail leads to the lake. Along the way, you can see a Roman castle in the cliff. There are beaches, camping grounds, water sports and walking tracks on the shores of the lake. There are many comfortable inns and hotels in Kinneret that can take care of your accommodation.