Tabgha - the loaves and the fishes

Tabgha, originally Heptapegon (Seven Springs), is the traditional location for the miracle which happened when Jesus was preaching, and thousands were able to feed on five loaves and two fishes.

A church was first built at this site in the 4th century A.D. This was followed, in the 5th century by the construction of a large monastery and church. These buildings were partly destoyed in the 7th century and buried under silt and stones.

Following extensive excavations in the 1980s, this church has been restored. It is a beautiful little church and on the floor are wonderful mosiacs, including a mosaic of the two fish and five loaves. The mosaic, as reproduced on a plate, is shown in the photo.

It is of interest that Tabgha, because of the warm fresh water provided by the springs, and the algae which grow as a result of the warm water entering the Sea of Gallillee, is an excellent site for fish and for fishing.

The primary fish of the Sea of Gallilee is called St. Peter's Fish. It is also known as tilapia. We were fortunate to stop at a restaurant near Tiberias to have lunch which featured St. Peter's Fish. There were, in addition, numerous small dishes of vegetables and sauces.