The Basilica Of St. John And The House Of The Virgin Mary

The Basilica Of St. John And The House Of The Virgin Mary Photo #1 of 2 Photo copyright ShoreTrips.com.

Overview

Visit the Basilica of St. John and the stone house dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Depart Izmir and drive to the town of Selcuk. As you reach the silted valley, time seems to come to a halt and then reverse. After a steep drive up Mt. Pagus, you'll arrive at a stone chapel.

The House of the Virgin Mary is a Christian shrine in the vicinity of Ephesus. After the crucifixion of Jesus, apostles were subject to torture, and St. John came to stay at Ephesus and preach the word of God. Some believe that the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken to this stone house by Saint John following the crucifixion of Jesus. Roman Catholics believe that she lived there until her assumption into Heaven; other denominations of Christians recognize this spot as her burial place.

Afterwards, visit the Basilica of St. John, built in the 6th century to house St. John's tomb chamber. It is believed that St. John spent his last years in the region around Ephesus and, 300 years after his death, a small chapel was constructed over his grave. During the reign of Emperor Justinian, the small chapel was changed into a marvelous basilica.

- The price of this trip includes a driver and air-conditioned vehicle, all transportation costs, an English-speaking guide, and entrance and parking fees to all sites.
- Always communicate your needs and expectations to your driver/guide. They are there to take care of you in any situation, and are more than willing to adjust the day accordingly, upon immediate request. For example, if you are not interested in purchasing a certain local product, let your guide know. There is never any obligation for you to purchase anything.

Days offered: 7 days a week

Departures:

• 09:00 AM, duration: 4 hours
• 02:00 PM, duration: 4 hours