Please refer to your voucher for final information regarding meeting points, pick-up locations, and pick-up time
The House of the Virgin Mary is believed to be where the Virgin Mary lived her final years and rested. It is an important pilgrimage site for Christians. According to tradition, John the Apostle brought the Virgin Mary to Ephesus to live out her final days. The site has been officially recognized as a holy place by the Catholic Church, attracting believers from around the world to pray and commemorate, holding profound religious significance.
The ancient city of Ephesus boasts numerous astonishing ancient Roman ruins. Must-see attractions include the magnificent Library of Celsus, with its intricate carvings and impressive two-story facade. There's also the grand amphitheater, capable of holding 25,000 spectators, which once hosted gladiator contests. Additionally, Curetes Street, the Temple of Hadrian, and the ancient marketplace all showcase the city's former prosperity and architectural craftsmanship.
The ancient city of Ephesus was once one of the most important port cities of the Roman Empire in Asia Minor, and a vital center for early Christianity. The Apostle Paul preached here and wrote his Epistle to the Ephesians. The ancient city was also home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Its rich history and diverse religious cultures interwoven make it a pivotal site in history.
For visiting the ancient city of Ephesus, it is generally recommended to allocate about 2 to 3 hours. This allows ample time to appreciate its rich historical sites such as the Library of Celsus, the amphitheater, and the Temple of Hadrian. If you wish to explore more deeply or include nearby sites like the House of the Virgin Mary, a full-day tour would be more suitable for a comprehensive cultural experience.
Booking a day tour that includes the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary can typically be done through online travel platforms like KKday. The general process involves selecting your desired date and number of participants, filling in traveler information, and completing the online payment. After booking, you will receive a confirmation voucher to present on the day of the tour. Booking through KKday offers a convenient experience and comprehensive itinerary planning, which may include flights from Istanbul and local transportation.
Since Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary are located in western Turkey, a significant distance from Istanbul, the most common and convenient method is to take a domestic flight. Day tours typically include round-trip airfare from Istanbul Airport. Upon arrival at the local airport, you will be transferred to the sites by dedicated transportation. This method effectively saves travel time, allowing you to easily explore the historical ruins.
The Library of Celsus is one of the most magnificent and best-preserved structures in the ancient city of Ephesus. Its uniqueness lies in its exquisite double-story facade, adorned with four female statues representing wisdom, knowledge, intellect, and virtue. Internally, it once housed approximately 12,000 papyrus scrolls, making it the third-largest library in the Roman Empire and a symbol of its architectural and academic brilliance.
When visiting the House of the Virgin Mary, it is recommended to dress modestly and avoid overly revealing clothing to show respect for the holy site. Maintain silence indoors and in the surrounding areas, avoiding loud conversations. Many visitors light candles for prayer or collect water from the 'holy water wall,' which are ways to show reverence. Please respect local religious customs and maintain a solemn atmosphere.