Basilica of St John Tourism

The Basilica of St. John is a monumental religious site located in Ephesus, which is near the modern town of Selçuk in Turkey. Established by Justinian I in the 6th century, it was built over what was believed to be the tomb of John the Apostle, making it a place of pilgrimage and religious significance. The basilica was once a great church, resembling a cross in shape, with six domes and built mostly with bricks. It stood in the region that was one of the most important Christian centres of its time. However, the basilica suffered severe damage due to earthquakes and invasions over the centuries. Today, it lies in ruins, yet it remains a fascinating historical site, offering insights into early Christian architecture and the Byzantine period. Visitors to the site can wander through the remnants of the church, view the columns and mosaics, and imagine the grandeur of the past. The impressive central dome once soared over the burial site of St. John, attracting pilgrims from all around the Christian world. The site also offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas, including the Temple of Artemis, and the Aegean Sea.