Archaeologists working near the Sea of Galilee say they may have identified the biblical village of Bethsaida, long associated in the New Testament with Jesus’ miracles and as the hometown of apostles Peter, Andrew, and Philip.

Excavations at the El-Araj site have uncovered a Byzantine-era church, Roman fishing tools, and a first-century house wall beneath later religious structures.

Researchers also found a mosaic inscription referencing Saint Peter, which they say strengthens the case for the site being the ancient town.

A wildfire in 2025 further revealed additional artifacts and architectural remains, adding momentum to the identification, the Express has reported.

While some scholars remain divided, the findings are being described by the excavation team as strong evidence linking El-Araj to Bethsaida.