ARCHEOLOGY: STUDY TRIP IN GALILEE

Once again this year, the École Biblique et Archéologique Française de Jérusalem organized a topographical study trip to Galilee and the Golan.

For this third and final study trip of the academic year, a group of about fifteen students set off under the guidance of Fr. Yunus Demirci, OFM Cap, to explore key sites of Jesus’ ministry—just days after celebrating Easter, when, according to the Gospels, Christ goes before us into Galilee. “Are we answering the Gospel’s invitation by journeying now to Galilee?” one student reflected. The trip followed the traces of the many civilizations that left their mark on the land, especially along the Via Maris. These fascinating sites—first studied in books—were finally brought to life through firsthand discovery.

Indeed, visiting Galilee means walking through history—from the Old Testament to the New. This week of topographical exploration focused on comparing the historical significance of Jewish, Christian, and occasionally Judeo-Christian sites with their archaeological remains. From the coastal towns once walked by the Twelve to Tel Dan, referenced in the Bible in the expression “from Dan to Beersheba,” students were able to complement their academic formation with hands-on field experience. While Catholics around the world turned their attention to Rome in anticipation of a new pope, visiting the sanctuary of Tabgha—where the Primacy of Peter is commemorated—carried a particularly moving resonance.

While anyone can study the history of the region in books, only field visits allow for such a deep and personal connection to the land—a hallmark of the ÉBAF since its founding. We are grateful to have fulfilled this mission once again.

Click here to watch a short video of our journey.

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This study trip—like those to Jordan and the Negev—was made possible thanks to the generosity of our donors.

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