Capernaum was the major center of trade and commerce in Galilee. The international trade route from Egypt through Palestine to Syria and Mesopotamia, passed near Capernaum. Located only three miles west of the eastern border ofGalilee at the Jordan River, the town became a port of entry and customs checkpoint. A collector of customs frompassing caravans, Matthew would also collect fees for fish caught in the lake, levied by Herod Antipas who, in effect, owned the lake. Roman military personnel were stationed at Capernaum under the command of a centurion.
Recent excavations indicate that a military garrison was quartered east of the town.
These mercenary troops enjoyed a complete bath installation and other excellent facilities. This garrison served Harod Antipas, the governor of Galilee, under Roman authority. A fourth century synagogue of white limestone stands in Capernaum. At the request of this centurion, and encouraged by the synagogue elders, Jesus healed the centurion's servant. It was in this region, in Capernaum, Chorazin, and Bethsaida, that Jesus performed most of His Galilean miracles.