Plan Your Visit

Welcome to Magdala, a crossroads of Christian and Jewish history. Nestled on the serene shores of the Sea of Galilee, Magdala is not only the hometown of Mary Magdalene, but also a site of profound spiritual and historical significance. Whether you come from near or far, we invite you to step back in time, reflect on the sacred, and experience a peaceful connection to both the past and the present.

Archaeological Park

Magdala is home to one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the Holy Land. Explore the remains of a first-century Jewish town, including a unique synagogue where the famous Magdala Stone was discovered — a rare and significant find for both Jewish and Christian history. The stone, previously displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and The Vatican Museums in Italy, continues to offer insight into the rich spiritual heritage of this region.

As you walk through the park, you will also encounter ancient ritual baths (mikveh) and other structures that bring to life the story of this Galilean town.

To enrich your visit, guided tours are offered by our volunteers, who are passionate about sharing the history and significance of this holy place.

Learn more about Magdala's Archaeology

Duc In Altum

Inspired by the words of Jesus, “Put out into the deep,” Duc In Altum is our prayer center and the spiritual heart of Magdala. This sacred space offers an invitation to deep prayer, reflection, and a sense of community. Whether through religious art, liturgical services, or personal moments of silence, Duc In Altum immerses you in the life and message of Jesus. Its chapels and contemplative spaces are thoughtfully designed for you to pause, reflect, and experience the sacred in a meaningful and transformative way.

Discover Duc In Altum

Guest House

Our Guest House provides a serene and restful environment for pilgrims and visitors seeking a place of peace. With breathtaking views of the Sea of Galilee, it is the perfect place to unwind, reflect, and deepen your spiritual journey. Whether you’re here for a short stay, a longer retreat, or part of a pilgrimage, you will find a quiet space to reconnect with yourself, your faith, and the divine.

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The Magdala Mosaic

One of the most beautiful features of the archaeological site is the Magdala Mosaic, a Byzantine-inspired artwork depicting a map of First Century Galilee. This remarkable mosaic offers a unique visual connection to the world in which Jesus lived, prayed, and taught.

Adopt a Tile

The Sea of Galilee at Sunrise and Sunset

At Magdala, the beauty of the Sea of Galilee is ever-present, but sunrise and sunset offer particularly sacred moments to connect with nature and the divine. At sunrise, the calm waters reflect the quiet majesty of the morning, creating a perfect setting for prayer, meditation, or simply enjoying a moment of stillness in God’s creation.

As the sun sets, the lake transforms with vibrant hues, inviting you to reflect on the day’s blessings. During these peaceful times, you can also observe the graceful movements of the birds that call this area home, adding a serene harmony to the experience.

Whether welcoming the day or bidding it farewell, the Sea of Galilee at Magdala invites you to find inspiration and peace in its timeless beauty.

Visitor Center

Your visit to Magdala begins at our Visitor Center, where our friendly staff and volunteers will provide you with helpful information to make the most of your experience. The center also features a gift shop with unique religious and cultural items, perfect for taking home a meaningful reminder of your time at this holy site.

Take a moment to relax at our coffee shop, where you can enjoy a selection of beverages and light refreshments while taking in the serene surroundings of Magdala. It’s the perfect spot to pause and recharge, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the profound spiritual and historical experience this sacred site offers.

Opening Times

Visitor Center & Archaeological Park

Visit us

Monday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Email us

visit@magdala.org

Call us

(+97) 2 4620 9900

Duc in Altum

Visit us

Monday to Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Email us

ducinaltum@magdala.org

Call us

(+97) 2 53326 1622

Guest House

Visit us

Open year-round with availability for both short and long stays.

For reservations, please contact us in advance:

Email us

reservation1@magdala.org

Call us

(+97) 2 4620 9900

From Jerusalem

By car

Route Option 1:

  • Drive west on Highway 1 and connect to Highway 6 (Toll Highway) heading north toward Tiberias.
  • Merge onto Highway 70, following signs to Nazareth/Tiberias, and continue onto Highway 77.
  • Once in Tiberias, follow the signs to Tzefat and merge onto Highway 90. Magdala will be on your right, approximately 6 km from Tiberias.

Route Option 2:

  • Take Highway 1 east and merge onto Route 90 north toward Bet Shean.
  • Follow Route 90 alongside the Sea of Galilee, passing Tiberias, and continue to Tzefat. Magdala will be on your right after passing Tiberias.
  • (Please carry your passport or ID when using this route.)

By Public Transport:

From Jerusalem's Central Bus Station (HaTahanah HaMerkazit):

  • Take Bus 912, 959, 961, 963, or 966 to Tiberias.

From the Tiberias Central Bus Station, take a local bus (48, 54, 55, 56, 59, 450, 541, or 840) or a taxi to Magdala.

  • You will need a Rav Kav bus card, available at tram stations or kiosks in the Central Bus Station.

From Tel Aviv

By car

Route Option 1:

  • Take Highway 2 or Highway 20 north and connect to Highway 77.
  • Use the right lane to merge onto Route 65, then turn onto Route 807, and continue onto Highway 90.
  • Magdala is northeast, approximately a 1.5-hour drive (130 km).

Route Option 2:

  • Drive on Highway 5 north, then take Highway 6 (Toll Highway), connect to Highway 77, and follow Route 65.
  • Merge onto Route 807 and connect to Highway 90 northeast toward Magdala.

By Public Transport

From Tel Aviv’s Central Bus Station:

  • Take Bus 845 or 836 to Tiberias.

From the Tiberias Central Bus Station, take a local bus (48, 54, 55, 56, 59, 450, 541, or 840) or a taxi to Magdala.

  • You will need a Rav Kav bus card, available at tram stations or kiosks in the Central Bus Station.

Whether traveling from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, Magdala is accessible by car or public transport. Enjoy a scenic journey to this historic and spiritual site!

We look forward to welcoming you to Magdala, a place where the stories of our faith come alive. Whether you come for a day of exploration, a journey of prayer, or a peaceful retreat by the sea, we trust your time here will be meaningful and transformative. For any inquiries, please don’t hesitate to contact us.