Kursi, Sea of Galilee

Kursi is an archaeological site on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee in Israel containing the remains of a Byzantine-era monastery and church dating mainly to the 5th-7th centuries.

The exposed ruins include a large basilica with surviving mosaic floors, rows of column bases, and foundations of surrounding monastic buildings; interpretive panels and a small visitor area explain the finds. The mosaics and architectural fragments are the main attractions for visitors interested in late antique ecclesiastical architecture and early Christian archaeology.

Excavations in the 20th century revealed the plan of the basilica and associated monastic complex, showing occupation in the Byzantine period and decline or abandonment in the 7th century. Archaeological work established the site’s chronology and produced the mosaics and structural remains now on display.

Located on the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee (Lake Kinneret), the site sits within the Jordan Valley coastal zone and is presented to the public as an archaeological park close to the lake’s shoreline.

• Mosaic floors: Large mosaic floors from the 5th-7th centuries survive within the basilica and are the principal archaeological highlight at the site.
• Park access: The site is protected and presented as an archaeological park with walkways and explanatory signage managed for public access.

What to See #

• Great Basilica: The main basilica uncovered at the site dates to the Byzantine period and preserves large areas of patterned mosaic flooring and the bases of its columned nave.
• Monastic complex: Remains of auxiliary monastic buildings surround the church and include courtyards, rooms and stone foundations that mark the footprint of the monastery compound.
• Visitor facilities: A small visitor area and walkways allow access to the exposed ruins and interpretive panels explaining the archaeological finds and the site's identification with Gospel traditions.