Korazim National Park is situated on a basalt plain overlooking the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River at about 300 meters above the level of the lake. Korazim relates to Karoz, which is in Hebrew “the announcer”, whereas Chorazin is the original Aramaic version.

Korazim was connected to the site of Capernaum by an ancient road, on which also Jesus is said to have traveled. Korazim is one of the three cities, which he condemned after they refused to accept his teachings at the time.

The ruins uncovered here date back to the first century AD. Archaeologists discovered an impressive old synagogue as well as parts of an old city, which must have flourished during the Talmudic and Mishnaic periods. The synagogue was built during the late Byzantine period and is considered to be among the most beautiful in Israel. The black basalt stones, which are so common for this area, carry ornate carvings of plants, fruits, people and animals.

After the excavations were finished, a ritual bath, two homes and an oil press were reconstructed here. Visitors can enjoy a great view over the Sea of Galilee at the site’s lookout point.

The site of Korazim is a great alternative to the busy and heavily frequented site of the Capernaum, if film crews are looking for archaeological sites from the times of Jesus. It is an official National Park and filming can be arranged before and after opening hours. Capernaum’s beautiful white synagogue tends to get very busy and the main excavation areas are all fenced in. Korazim is less frequented, but easily accessible and an attractive location for documentary teams from around the world.