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Ephesus

Ephesus has deep historical significance for the early Christian Church. This city, where two great Councils were held, is one of the Seven Churches in Revelation. St. Paul visited Ephesus during his missionary journeys, and the city is considered the final resting place of the Virgin Mary, along with St. John.

Ephesus, one of the most impressive and largest ancient cities in the world, is among the best examples of Roman port cities with its sea canal and port basin. Founded in the 2nd millennium BC, Ephesus developed around the sanctuary of Artemis of Ephesus, a mother goddess originally from Anatolia, which became one of the most important and powerful sanctuaries of the ancient world. Ephesus took part in the Ionian Uprising as part of the Ionian League. The Battle of Ephesus in 498 BC was one of the first events of the Greco-Persian Wars. When Asia Minor joined the Roman Empire in 133 BCE, Ephesus was declared the capital of this new province, cementing its role as a cultural and economic hub.

Ephesus, with its monuments, showcases the cultural traditions and heritage of the Hellenistic, Roman Imperial and early Christian periods. Notable structures include the impressive Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the Serapeion, and the well-preserved Terrace Houses, whose wall paintings, mosaics, and marble coverings showcase the luxurious lifestyle of the upper sections of society at the time. These houses reflect the aesthetics of the period with their intricate floor mosaics. The Theater, which has a seating capacity of approximately 25,000 people, is another architectural marvel that highlights the cultural and social life of the city.

 

Hours

Event

Highlights

11:00

Meet and Move

As exiting the Cruise Port, walk across the street & meet in front of Customs Office.

11:40

Ephesus South Gate

Entrance from the Upper (Magnesia) Gate.

11:55

Upper City Tour

Odeon, State Agora and Temple of Domitian.

12:10

Curetes Street

Traian’s Fountain, Hadrian’s Temple, and Public Toilets (Latrina).

12:25

Hillside Houses

Ancient dwellings known as the “Houses of the Rich”.

12:40

Library of Celsus

The most iconic structure and photo spot of Ephesus.

13:00

The Great Theater

Walk to the huge theater with a capacity of 24,000 people via Marble Street.

13:45

Lunch Break

Open buffet lunch in Selçuk.

15:30

Return and Arrival

Transfer to the Cruise Port.

 

Important Reminders

  • Walking Route: The program is planned to start from the Upper Gate (South) and end at the Lower Gate (North) -allowing you to walk downhill.
  • Supplies: It is recommended to have comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and a hat.

Included in the price

  • Professional licensed English-speaking local guide.
  • Entrance fee for Ephesus Ancient City.
  • Skip-the-line priority access at entrance gates.
  • Transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.
  • International flavors buffet lunch with Turkish deserts at a restaurant with free wi-fi access

Exclusions

  • Beverages: Drinks during lunch (except 1 bottle of water) or throughout the day are typically not included.
  • Gratuities: Tips for your professional guide and driver are at your discretion.
  • Personal Expenses: Any souvenirs or personal shopping items.

Off-duty and ready to explore?

Join the crew tour!

House of the Virgin Mary

The House of the Virgin Mary (House of the Virgin Mary) is a humble stone cottage located on Mount Koressos (Bülbüldağ, or “Nightingale Mountain”), about 7 kilometers (4 miles) from the ancient ruins of Ephesus in modern-day Turkiye. It is widely revered as the place where the Virgin Mary spent her final years.

The Ephesus Tradition: According to Christian tradition, before Jesus died on the cross, he entrusted the care of his mother to Saint John the Apostle (John 19:26-27). Since St. John later traveled to Ephesus to preach, it is believed he brought Mary with him to protect her from persecution in Jerusalem.

Papal Recognition: While the Catholic Church has never formally “authenticated” the house due to a lack of scientific proof, it has been officially declared a Holy Place. It has been visited and blessed by several Popes, including Paul VI (1967), John Paul II (1979), and Benedict XVI (2006).

Islamic Veneration: Mary (Meryem) is the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran and is highly honored in Islam. Consequently, the site is a place of pilgrimage for both Christians and Muslims.

 

Hours

Event

Highlights

11:30

Meet and Move

As exiting the Cruise Port, walk across the street & meet our guide in front of Customs Office.

12:15

Virgin Mary’s House

Visit the peaceful chapel on Mt. Koressos where Mary spent her final years.

13:30

Virgin Mary’s Statue

Quick photo stop with the bronze statue of the Virgin Mary (gifted by Assumptionist Sisters in 1896).

14:00

Lunch Break

Open buffet lunch in Selçuk.

14:50

Basilica of St John

Visit the tomb of John the Apostle, one of Jesus Christ’s closest disciples and experience a few remaining brought from Artemis.

15:30

Return and Arrival

Transfer to the Cruise Port.

 

Important Reminders

  • Supplies: It is best to dress modestly out of respect for the site’s religious significance (shoulders covered, shorts/skirts at lest reaching the knee, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat).

Included in the price

  • Professional licensed English-speaking local guide.
  • Entrance fee for House of Virgin Mary.
  • Skip-the-line priority access at entrance gates.
  • Transportation in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.
  • International flavors buffet lunch with Turkish deserts at a restaurant with free wi-fi access

Exclusions

  • Beverages: Drinks during lunch (except 1 bottle of water) or throughout the day are typically not included.
  • Gratuities: Tips for your professional guide and driver are at your discretion.
  • Personal Expenses: Any souvenirs or personal shopping items.

Off-duty and ready to explore?

Join the crew tour!

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