Location
Overview
Magdala ("tower") was a prosperous fishing town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. It is best known as the home of Mary Magdalene.
Mary of Magdala
Mary "called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils" (Luke 8:2) took her name from this town. Healed and devoted, she followed Jesus, stood by the cross, and was the first to see him risen (John 20:1–18).
By the lake
Jesus came by boat "into the coasts of Magdala" (Matthew 15:39; the parallel calls it Dalmanutha, Mark 8:10), where the Pharisees came seeking a sign and he warned of the "leaven of the Pharisees."
A town of fishers
Known to later sources as a centre of the fish trade, Magdala typifies the bustling lakeside towns from which Jesus drew his first followers.
Events Here
Jesus comes by boat to the region of Magdala
Scripture References
2 versesMatthew1 verse
Matthew 15:39
And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and came into the coasts of Magdala.
Mark1 verse
Mark 8:10
And straightway he entered into a ship with his disciples, and came into the parts of Dalmanutha.
Archaeology & History
Magdala is identified with Migdal on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, where excavations have uncovered a first-century town with a synagogue (the "Magdala Stone," carved with a menorah) and a well-preserved harbour and fish-processing installations — a vivid picture of the lakeside world of the Gospels.
Frequently asked about Magdala
Where is Magdala today?
Today, Magdala corresponds to Migdal, Israel.
What does the name Magdala mean?
The name Magdala means “Tower”.
What happened at Magdala in the Bible?
Key biblical events at Magdala include jesus comes by boat to the region of magdala.
Where is Magdala first mentioned in the Bible?
Magdala is first mentioned in Matthew 15:39.
How often is Magdala mentioned in the Bible?
Magdala is mentioned in 2 verses across 2 books: Matthew, Mark.
Who came from Magdala?
Mary Magdalene — "Magdalene" means "of Magdala." She was delivered of seven demons, followed Jesus, and was the first witness of his resurrection.
Where is Magdala?
On the western shore of the Sea of Galilee, at modern Migdal, between Tiberias and the plain of Gennesaret.