Ephesus & the House of Virgin Mary (KUS - 01) Half Day

KUSADASI - Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary Drive through the colourful town of Kusadasi to reach Mt. Koressos. Situated in a small valley, he humble chapel lies on the site of the little house where the Virgin Mary is believed to have spent her last days. Despite the many controversies, the Christian World still favours this belief and the site has been officially sanctioned by the Vatican for pilgrimage. Continue on to Ancient Ephesus accompanied by your guide walk through the Magnesian Gate which is the entrance to the ancient city of Ephesus. Your guided walking tour will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. See the Odeon (concert hall), the Fountain of Trajan, the steam-heated Baths of Scolastika, the Temple of Hadrian and the Latrians, the Library of Celsus and The Great Theatre, the largest one in antiquity with a capacity of 24,000 seats where St. Paul preached. Walk back to the coach along the Arcadian Way, where Mark Anthony and Cleopatra once rode in procession. While driving back to Kusadasi and just outside Ephesus, view the Basilica of St. John, which was erected over his grave in the 6th Century A.D. by Emperor Justinian.

The House of the Virgin (Meryemana in Turkish), located in a nature park between Ehesus and Seljuk, is believed to be the last residence of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus. The peaceful site is sacred to both Christians and Muslims, and is visited by many tourists and pilgrims.

Before returning to the ship, get a cultural taste of Turkey by enjoying an exhibition of oriental carpets, jewellery or leather goods.

Remarks