Biblical Journey: Ephesus, Mary’s House and St. John Basilica

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Meryemana (The Virgin Mary's House)

  What to Expect When Visiting the House of Virgin Mary Nestled on Mount Koressos near Ephesus, the House of Virgin Mary is a peaceful pilgrimage site believed to be the final home of Mary, mother of Jesus. Surrounded by pine trees and serene nature, the site offers a quiet and spiritual experience. The modest stone house has been preserved as a chapel, where visitors can light candles, offer prayers, and reflect in silence. A nearby spring is considered sacred, and many visitors collect water believed to have healing properties. Recognized by both the Catholic and Orthodox churches, the site has been visited by popes and pilgrims from around the world. Whether you’re religious or simply curious, the House of Virgin Mary invites reflection, peace, and a sense of connection to ancient history and faith.

  45 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 2
  Ancient City of Ephesus

  Experience Ephesus Like Never Before – With a Privately Guided Tour Step into the heart of ancient Ephesus and let history come alive as you walk along 2,000-year-old marble streets with your expert private guide. This immersive tour includes iconic landmarks like the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the Fountains of Trajan and Pollio, the Baths of Scholastica, the Temple of Domitian, the Bouloterion, and the Great Theatre that once held 24,000 spectators. You’ll also visit the Terrace Houses, located on the slopes of Bülbül Mountain, opposite the Temple of Hadrian. Known as “the houses of the rich,” these elite Roman homes feature beautifully preserved mosaics, frescoes, and heating systems, offering a rare glimpse into daily life in ancient Ephesus. Perfect for travelers seeking a deeper, more personal connection to history, this tour blends expert storytelling with exclusive access to one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites.

  2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 3
  The Temple of Artemis

  What to Expect When Visiting the Temple of Artemis Step into the sacred grounds of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—the Temple of Artemis. Though only a few columns remain today, the site’s historical importance and the legacy of the goddess Artemis continue to captivate visitors. Once a magnificent marble structure dedicated to the goddess of the hunt, fertility, and nature, the temple was a symbol of power, devotion, and architectural brilliance in the ancient world. Your visit offers a chance to reflect on its storied past, from glorious construction to tragic destruction. With insights from your guide, you'll uncover the spiritual and cultural role this temple played in Ephesus and beyond. Surrounded by peaceful nature, the ruins invite a moment of stillness and connection with history. Visiting the Temple of Artemis is not just about seeing what remains—it's about imagining what once stood in awe-inspiring grandeur.

  20 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4
  Grotto of the Seven Sleepers

  What to Expect at the Seven Sleepers Cave Visit the legendary Seven Sleepers Cave, where according to tradition, seven young Christians sought refuge and miraculously slept for centuries. Your guide will share the fascinating story behind this ancient site, rich in religious and cultural significance. The serene atmosphere invites quiet reflection.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5
  Basilica of St. John

  What to Expect When Visiting the Basilica of St. John Overlooking the town of Selçuk, the Basilica of St. John is a peaceful and powerful site believed to be the burial place of John the Apostle. Built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, the ruins once formed a grand, cross-shaped church with six domes. As you walk among its marble columns and stone arches, you’ll be surrounded by sweeping views of Selçuk, the Temple of Artemis, and even the distant Aegean Sea. Informative signs help you visualize the basilica's original scale and design. Though in ruins, the site holds deep spiritual and historical meaning, offering insight into early Christianity and Byzantine architecture. It’s a quiet, often overlooked gem that adds depth and beauty to any visit to the region.

  45 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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