House of the Virgin Mary

DestinationKuşadası, Turkey

CategoryInternational

Starting fromOn request

CancellationAs per policy

House of the Virgin Mary in Turkey Tours

The House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi) is a revered pilgrimage site located on Mount Koressos (Bülbüldağı) near Ephesus and Selçuk, within easy reach of Kuşadası. According to Christian tradition, the small stone house is believed to be the place where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her final years.

The peaceful site is surrounded by pine forests and natural scenery, creating a quiet atmosphere for reflection and prayer. Visitors can explore the modest historic house, visit the nearby wishing wall and sacred spring, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

The House of the Virgin Mary is significant to Christian pilgrims and visitors interested in religious and ancient history. Its proximity to Ephesus makes it a popular addition to sightseeing tours in the Kuşadası and Selçuk region.

Terms & conditions

Admission is subject to the current entrance fee and site regulations.
Visitors must present a valid ticket where required.
Visitors should follow the instructions of site staff, security personnel and local authorities.
Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully, as the site has important religious significance.
Visitors must maintain quiet and respectful behaviour, particularly inside the chapel.
Visitors must remain within designated visitor areas and must not enter restricted sections.
Visitors must not touch, damage or interfere with religious objects, structures, archaeological features or historic elements.
Photography may be permitted in designated areas, but photography or filming inside the chapel may be restricted.
Commercial photography, professional filming or organised photo shoots may require prior permission.
Visitors should not disturb religious ceremonies, prayers or other pilgrims.
Children must remain under the supervision of an accompanying adult.
The site includes uneven surfaces, steps and outdoor walking areas; comfortable footwear is recommended.
Visitors should exercise caution during hot weather, rain or slippery conditions.
Access to certain areas may be temporarily restricted due to religious ceremonies, maintenance, restoration, security or safety requirements.
Opening hours and visitor arrangements may change without prior notice.
Visitors are responsible for their personal belongings.
Visitors should respect the site's religious, cultural and historical significance.
Cancellation and refund conditions depend on the admission ticket and booking channel.
If the House of the Virgin Mary is included in an organised Ephesus/Kuşadası tour, the tour operator's cancellation and refund policy will apply.
If the site is temporarily closed or access is restricted, refund or alternative arrangements are subject to the applicable ticket or tour conditions.
Late arrival or failure to join an organised tour may result in loss of the booking without refund, depending on the operator's terms.

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Adults

Children

PriceOn request

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Got questions?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

01Do I need to book a hot air balloon ride in advance for Cappadocia?

Answer. Yes, it is highly recommended to book in advance as balloon rides are very popular and can sell out quickly, especially during peak season.

02Can I use my mobile phone in Turkey?

Answer. Yes, international roaming works, but local SIM cards (Turkcell, Vodafone, Türk Telekom) are affordable and offer good data plans.

03What should I wear in Turkey?

Answer. Turkey is modern and diverse, but modest clothing is recommended when visiting mosques or religious sites. Carry a scarf for women to cover their heads when entering mosques.

04Do I need travel insurance for Turkey?

Answer. Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.

05What kind of food can I expect in Turkey?

Answer. Turkish cuisine includes kebabs, mezes, baklava, Turkish delight, pide (Turkish pizza), and çay (tea). Vegetarian options are also widely available.

06What is the official language in Turkey?

Answer. The official language is Turkish, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

07What is the local currency in Turkey?

Answer. The currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but carrying some cash is recommended for small vendors and rural areas.

08How many days are ideal for a Turkey tour?

Answer. A minimum of 7–10 days is recommended to explore Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Pamukkale. For a more relaxed trip including Antalya or Ephesus, plan for 12–14 days.

09What is the best time to visit Turkey?

Answer. The best time to visit Turkey is April to June (spring) and September to November (autumn) when the weather is pleasant and sightseeing is most enjoyable. July and August can be very hot, especially in inland areas.

10Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?

Answer. Yes, most travelers require a visa or e-Visa to enter Turkey. Some nationalities can get an e-Visa online before arrival, while others may be visa-exempt. Check the official Turkish e-Visa website for details.

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About Turkey

Western Asia

Turkey is a transcontinental country, primarily located in Western Asia (Anatolia) with a smaller portion in Southeastern Europe (Thrace). It's a nation of significant historical and cultural importance, bridging Europe and Asia, and boasts a diverse landscape, from coastal plains to mountainous regions. Turkey is strategically located, controlling key waterways like the Turkish Straits, which link the Black and Aegean Seas.

Key Aspects of Turkey:
Geography: Turkey's geography is diverse, including the Anatolian plateau, coastal plains, and mountainous regions in the east. It's bordered by the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea, and Aegean Sea.
History: Turkey has a rich history, encompassing the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, and the modern Republic of Turkey, established in 1923.
Culture: Turkey's culture is a blend of influences from its diverse past and its current position as a transcontinental nation.
Economy: Turkey has a large and diverse economy, with strengths in manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism.
Politics: Turkey is a multiparty republic with a strong presidential system.
People: Turkey has a population of over 85 million people, with a majority of Turkish ethnicity and a significant Kurdish minority.

In essence, Turkey is a country of contrasts: it's both ancient and modern, European and Asian, and its strategic location and rich history have shaped its identity and its role in the world.