Tabgha: Where Miracles Multiplied

On the serene northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee lies Tabgha, a name derived from the Greek “Heptapegon” meaning “Seven Springs.” This quiet fishing village witnessed one of Jesus’s most famous miracles – the multiplication of five loaves and two fish to feed five thousand. The event, recorded in all four Gospels, continues to inspire pilgrims nearly two millennia later:

“He gave orders that the people were to sit down on the grass; then he took the five loaves and the two fish, raised his eyes to heaven and said the blessing. And breaking the loaves he handed them to his disciples, who gave them to the crowds. They all ate as much as they wanted, and they collected the scraps left over, twelve baskets full.”

Matthew 14:19-21
Kościół Rozmnożenia Chleba i Ryb w Tabdze - miejsce cudu z Ewangelii
Church of the Multiplication of Bread and Fishes – a Byzantine temple from the 5th century

The current Church of the Multiplication, built in 1982, stands on the foundations of two earlier churches – a 4th-century Byzantine basilica and a 5th-century expansion. Beneath the altar lies the celebrated mosaic of the loaves and fish, dating to the original 5th-century church. This famous artwork frames the limestone slab believed to be the actual stone where Jesus placed the blessed meal.

What makes Tabgha particularly special:

  • The ancient mosaic floor – One of the Holy Land’s best-preserved Byzantine artworks, featuring native Galilean flora and fauna
  • The miracle stone – Worn smooth by centuries of reverent touch before being protected under the altar
  • The peaceful setting – Unlike busier holy sites, Tabgha maintains a quiet, contemplative atmosphere
  • Ongoing archaeological discoveries – Recent excavations revealed a previously unknown 1st-century fishing pier

Visitor’s Tip: Come early (before 9am) to experience the church in quiet solitude. The morning light through the simple windows creates a magical glow on the ancient mosaics. Afterwards, walk down to the lakeshore where Jesus likely appeared to his disciples after the Resurrection (John 21).

The Benedictine monks who maintain the church continue the ancient tradition of hospitality, offering visitors a simple meal of bread and fish – a tangible connection to the miraculous event that made this place sacred.