Korazim (Chorazin) is one of the three cities cursed by Jesus for their lack of faith (along with Capernaum and Bethsaida). The ruins of this ancient Jewish town sit on a basalt hilltop north of the Sea of Galilee, with a well-preserved synagogue and the remains of a prosperous community that thrived from the Roman through Byzantine periods.
The Synagogue
The Korazim synagogue, built of local black basalt in the 4th-5th century CE, is one of the most impressive ancient synagogues in the Galilee. A carved basalt chair found inside, known as the Seat of Moses, is a rare physical example of the “seat of Moses” mentioned by Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. The carving work throughout the synagogue is exceptional, with decorative friezes of grapes, animals, and geometric patterns.
The National Park
The ruins extend well beyond the synagogue, with remains of houses, oil presses, and public buildings visible across the hilltop. The site offers views of the lake and the surrounding Galilee, and its elevated position catches the breeze, making it a pleasant visit even in the heat of summer.
Visit with Hoshen Tours
Korazim adds archaeological depth to a Sea of Galilee tour. Hoshen Tours pairs it with Capernaum and the Gospel sites along the shore.