Kursi National Park
Explore ancient Byzantine ruins and connect with a pivotal biblical miracle overlooking the serene Sea of Galilee.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Kursi National Park
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient Byzantine ruins and connect with a pivotal biblical miracle overlooking the serene Sea of Galilee.
"Pretty small place but worth a look. My wife and I spent about half an hour here, looking at the ruins."
⏳ Allocate Your Time Wisely
Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes here. It's a smaller site, perfect for a brief but meaningful stop.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
Compared to other national parks, Kursi's entrance fee is quite reasonable, making it a worthwhile visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Byzantine Monastery Ruins
Main archaeological site
Explore the well-preserved remains of a 5th-century monastery and church, offering a glimpse into early Christian life.
Rare Mosaic Floor
Inside the church ruins
Admire the intricate and colorful mosaic floor, a testament to the craftsmanship of the Byzantine period.
Sea of Galilee Views
Overlooking the lake
Enjoy panoramic views of the Sea of Galilee from the park's elevated position, a serene backdrop to the historical site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Kursi
Understanding Kursi's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allocate Your Time Wisely
Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes here. It's a smaller site, perfect for a brief but meaningful stop.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
Compared to other national parks, Kursi's entrance fee is quite reasonable, making it a worthwhile visit.
🎧 Audio Guide Available
Enhance your understanding of the site's history with the available audio guide.
🚶♀️ Accessible for All
The park is recommended for families, including those with disabilities, suggesting good accessibility.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allocate Your Time Wisely
Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes here. It's a smaller site, perfect for a brief but meaningful stop.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
Compared to other national parks, Kursi's entrance fee is quite reasonable, making it a worthwhile visit.
🎧 Audio Guide Available
Enhance your understanding of the site's history with the available audio guide.
🚶♀️ Accessible for All
The park is recommended for families, including those with disabilities, suggesting good accessibility.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera to snap photos of the ruins and the stunning Sea of Galilee.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Kursi National Park to be a small but historically significant site, particularly for its connection to the biblical 'Miracle of the Swine.' The well-preserved Byzantine ruins and mosaic floor are highlights, offering a glimpse into early Christian history. While not as expansive as some other archaeological sites, its affordability and scenic views of the Sea of Galilee make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in biblical and historical exploration.
"Pretty small place but worth a look. Entrance is not free(photo). My wife and I spent about half an hour here, looking at the ruins. There are some signs with descriptions here, and a stand with an audio guide about general info of this place(video). You will not lose anything if you do not get here during your trip, but if you are interested in such things and you are ready to pay a little for entry - why not."
Alexandr Orlov
"Korsi National Park preserves impressive remains of a monastery and a church from the Byzantine period. According to Christian tradition this is where the miracle of the pigs mentioned in the New Testament took place. Fascinating remains of monastery, church and chapel opposite biblical Sea of Galilee. This is the traditional site of Jesus' miraculous restoration of a demon-possessed man. The miracle of the swine. Demons are sent into the pigs (approx 2000 of them). Kursi was in the region of the Decapolis, which was made up of 10 Roman cities. It was a region outside of Jewish authority and inhabited by Jews and Gentiles. It was an immoral area that represented all that sinful humanity had to offer. It was considered unclean to the Jews. I do recomend for the family to come including the disabled.
The historical place goes to the time of when Jesus roommed Israel."
Alex Drukpa.
"Korsi National Park preserves impressive remains of a monastery and a church from the Byzantine period. According to Christian tradition this is where the miracle of the pigs mentioned in the New Testament took place. I loved the mosaic and the view on the Lake Kineret."
Bryan Rosenraouch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kursi National Park is located on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee. It's accessible by car, and often included in guided tours of the Galilee region. Public transportation options might be limited, so renting a car or joining a tour is often recommended for ease of access.
Yes, Kursi is situated in the Galilee region, making it convenient to combine with visits to other biblical sites and attractions around the Sea of Galilee, such as Tiberias or Capernaum.
The park is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking among ancient ruins. The site is relatively compact, so a leisurely stroll is sufficient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Kursi National Park. It is generally considered more affordable than fees at other national parks in Israel.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Israel Nature and Parks Authority website or a reliable travel guide for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Tickets are typically available for purchase at the park entrance. For the most current information on booking and availability, it's best to consult the official park website.
Discounts may be available for certain groups such as children, students, or seniors. Checking the official park website or inquiring at the entrance is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kursi is traditionally believed to be the site of the 'Miracle of the Swine,' where Jesus cast demons into a herd of pigs, as described in the New Testament. It also features significant Byzantine-era ruins. 
You can explore the well-preserved ruins of a Byzantine monastery, church, and chapel, including a beautiful mosaic floor. The park also offers scenic views of the Sea of Galilee.
Most visitors find that 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore the park and appreciate its historical and scenic aspects.
Yes, Kursi National Park is considered suitable for families and is recommended for children. Its historical narrative and accessible ruins make it engaging.
Basic facilities such as restrooms are usually available at national parks in Israel. It's always a good idea to confirm specific amenities on the park's official website.
📸 📸 Photography
The mosaic floor inside the church ruins, the overall layout of the ancient monastery, and the panoramic views of the Sea of Galilee are prime spots for photography. The late afternoon light can be particularly beautiful.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and archaeological sites in Israel to preserve the environment and prevent disturbance. It's best to check the specific regulations for Kursi National Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🙏 Christian Pilgrims
+1 Standing on this ground, you can reflect on the biblical narrative and its message of deliverance. The serene setting overlooking the Sea of Galilee adds to the spiritual atmosphere, making it an ideal place for prayer and contemplation. 🏛️ History Enthusiasts
The remnants of the monastery and church, particularly the intricate mosaic floor, offer valuable insights into early Christian architecture and art. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Biblical Significance of Kursi
+1 According to these biblical accounts, Jesus encountered a man possessed by a legion of demons here. In a pivotal moment, Jesus cast the demons out of the man and into a herd of approximately 2,000 pigs that were feeding nearby. The pigs then rushed down a steep bank into the Sea of Galilee and drowned. This event, occurring in the region of the Gerasenes (often associated with Kursi), highlights Jesus' power over demonic forces and his ability to bring restoration and freedom.This location was part of the Decapolis, a league of ten Greco-Roman cities, which was a region outside of direct Jewish authority and often considered less religiously observant by Jewish standards.
Exploring the Byzantine Ruins
The most prominent structures are the ruins of a monastery and an attached church, which were likely built to commemorate the biblical miracle. Visitors can walk through the layout of these ancient buildings, gaining a sense of their original scale and design. The presence of a monastery indicates that Kursi was a significant pilgrimage destination during the Byzantine era.A standout feature within the church ruins is the remarkably well-preserved mosaic floor.
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