CAESAREA PHILIPPI

Jesus Christ promised Peter the keys of the kingdom probably near this location (see Matt. 16:19).

This large spring is located at the foot of Mount Hermon. It is one of the three headwaters of the Jordan River. Herod Philip, who ruled this area, built a city here in honor of Caesar (his emperor) and himself; the city was called previously Panias and today is called Banias or Caesarea Philippi.

Significant Events:
The Savior met with his disciples at Caesarea Philippi. Here Peter declared that the Savior was “the Christ, the Son of the living God.” The Savior then promised Peter “the keys of the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 16:13-20). (See Bible Dictionary, “Caesarea Philippi.”)