Exploring the ancient city of Ephesus and the sacred House of the Virgin Mary offers a unique opportunity to explore Turkey’s remarkable religious and historical legacy. On this comprehensive tour, visitors can wander through the remarkably well-preserved ruins, marvel at the grandeur of the Great Theatre, and stand in the very place believed to be the final home of the Mother of Jesus. With expert guidance and a wealth of fascinating insights, this captivating journey promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to uncover the rich tapestry of the region’s past.
Key Points
- This 7-hour tour takes visitors to the House of Virgin Mary and the ancient city of Ephesus, including the Basilica of Saint John and Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
- The tour includes a 70-minute van transfer to the House of Virgin Mary, a 50-minute guided tour, and a 2.5-hour guided tour of the Ephesus ruins.
- Visitors can also explore the Basilica of Saint John, a 6th-century AD structure marking the final resting place of the apostle John, and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
- The tour offers pickup from Izmir Cruise Ship Port, Izmir Hotels, and Izmir Airport, and dropoff in Selcuk, Izmir, or Sirince, with wheelchair accessibility.
- The tour has a maximum capacity of 12 people and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Details
The tour lasts 7 hours and accommodates up to 12 people.
Pickup is available from the Izmir Cruise Ship Port, Izmir Hotels, and Izmir Airport, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
It’s a private group tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary includes a 70-minute van transfer to the House of Virgin Mary, a 50-minute visit and guided tour there, followed by a 10-minute transfer to Ephesus for a 2.5-hour guided tour of the ruins.
There’s also an optional 70-minute lunch, a 1-hour tour of the Basilica of Saint John, and a 1-hour visit to the Ephesus Archaeological Museum before the 1-hour van transfer back to the drop-off locations.
Itinerary Overview
The tour begins with a 70-minute van transfer to the House of Virgin Mary, where guests will spend 50 minutes on a guided tour of the site.
They’ll then take a 10-minute van transfer to the renowned Ephesus ruins for a 2.5-hour guided tour.
After an optional 70-minute lunch in Selcuk, the itinerary continues with:
- A 1-hour visit and guided tour of the Basilica of Saint John
- A 1-hour visit and guided tour of the Ephesus Archaeological Museum
- A 30-minute photo stop and guided tour of the Temple of Artemis
- A 1-hour van transfer back to the drop-off locations in Selcuk, Izmir, or Sirince
The tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Ephesus and its historical and religious significance.
House of Virgin Mary
Why do visitors come to the House of Virgin Mary? This site is believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, and is an important pilgrimage destination for many Christian and Muslim travelers.
Located on a hillside near Ephesus, the modest stone house is a tranquil and sacred place. Visitors can explore the interior, which features an altar and chapel, and learn about the history and significance of this holy site.
The guided tour provides insights into the architectural details and the role the House of Virgin Mary has played in Christian and Islamic traditions. For many, this stop offers a profound spiritual experience amidst the ancient ruins of the Ephesus area.
Exploring Ephesus Ruins
Exploring the renowned Ephesus ruins offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the ancient city’s grandeur and historical significance. The guided tour takes visitors through the remarkably well-preserved remains, including the iconic Great Theatre where Saint Paul once preached to the Ephesian faithful.
Highlights of the Ephesus exploration include:
- Marveling at the colossal Library of Celsus, a stunning example of Greco-Roman architecture
- Witnessing the impressive Odeon, an ancient concert hall that could seat over 1,000 people
Navigating the Marble Street, a bustling commercial hub in the heart of the ancient city.
Discovering the Terraced Houses, revealing the lavish lifestyles of Ephesus’ elite residents.
Examining the Temple of Hadrian, a well-preserved temple dedicated to the Roman emperor.
Basilica of Saint John
After exploring the Ephesus ruins, the tour continues with a visit to the Basilica of Saint John. The basilica marks the final resting place of the apostle John, one of Jesus’ Twelve Disciples, and was built in the 6th century AD on the site of his original tomb.
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Architecture | The basilica was built in a cruciform shape with a large central dome. |
| Significance | It was an important pilgrimage site for early Christians seeking to venerate the remains of Saint John. |
| Condition | While the basilica is now in ruins, visitors can still see the impressive foundation and remaining columns. |
The tour provides an opportunity to learn about the history and significance of this important religious site.
Ephesus Archaeological Museum
The Ephesus Archaeological Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and relics uncovered from the ancient city of Ephesus.
Visitors can expect to see:
- Marble statues, including the magnificent statue of the goddess Artemis
- Numerous stone inscriptions that offer insights into the history and culture of Ephesus
- Mosaics and frescoes that once adorned the walls of ancient structures
- Everyday items like pottery, glassware, and tools used by the Ephesian people
- A collection of ancient coins that provide a glimpse into the economic life of the city
The museum’s vast and diverse exhibits offer a fascinating window into the rich heritage of Ephesus, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region.
Temple of Artemis
One of the highlights of the tour is the 30-minute photo stop and guided tour of the Temple of Artemis, which was once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
This temple, dedicated to the Greek goddess Artemis, was a massive and stunning structure that attracted visitors from all over the ancient world.
Today, only a single column remains standing, but the guide will provide a detailed explanation of the temple’s history and significance.
Guests will have the opportunity to snap photos and learn about this remarkable ancient site before continuing on to the next destination on the tour.
Pickup and Dropoff
The tour offers pickup from Izmir Cruise Ship Port, Izmir Hotels, and Izmir Airport for the convenience of guests.
Guests can then expect to be dropped off at their respective locations in Selcuk, Izmir, or Sirince at the end of the tour.
This flexible pickup and dropoff service makes it easy for travelers to join the tour, no matter where they’re staying.
The tour also offers these additional perks:
- Wheelchair accessible transportation
- Private group tour for up to 12 people
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
- Knowledgeable English-speaking guide
- Air-conditioned van for a comfortable journey
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Our Preferences?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit guests’ preferences. Many tour providers offer private group tours that allow for flexibility in the schedule and sites visited, within the overall tour duration.
Is There an Option to Add Any Extra Activities During the Tour?
The tour has a standard itinerary, but guests can request to add extra activities if time allows. The tour operator is flexible and will try to accommodate any reasonable requests made in advance.
How Do We Obtain Information on the Weather Conditions for the Day?
The tour operator can provide information on the weather conditions for the day of the tour. Guests should check with the operator prior to the tour to prepare appropriately for the expected weather.
Are Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place During the Tour?
The tour provider follows all current COVID-19 safety protocols, which may include mask requirements, social distancing, and limited group sizes. Specific details can be discussed when booking the tour.
Can We Request a Different Language-Speaking Guide for the Tour?
Sure, guests can request a different language-speaking guide, depending on availability. The tour operator will do their best to accommodate any special requests, though an additional fee may apply.
Recap
The Ephesus and The House of The Virgin Mary Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Turkey’s rich cultural heritage.
Visitors can experience the well-preserved ruins of Ephesus, the sacred House of Virgin Mary, the Basilica of Saint John, and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s historical and religious significance.
The tour’s itinerary is designed to maximize the experience, making it a must-visit for those interested in ancient history and Christian pilgrimage sites.
