The House of the Virgin Mary is a historic and religious site near Ephesus, Turkey, believed by some to be the last residence of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus. It is a sacred place for both Christians and Muslims.
It is situated on Mount Koressos in the vicinity of Ephesus, which is near the modern-day town of Selçuk in the Izmir Province of Turkey.
Visitors can reach the site by car or bus from the nearby town of Selçuk, which is well-connected to major cities such as Izmir and Istanbul. Organized tours often include a visit as part of a day trip to Ephesus.
Yes, religious services are occasionally held at the site, especially on August 15th, which is the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, a significant date in Christianity.
Yes, the site is open to tourists and pilgrims alike. Regular visiting hours are typically set, but it's advisable to check for any updates or changes before planning a visit.
Visitors can see the small stone house where the Virgin Mary is said to have lived until her Assumption or Dormition. The site also includes a spring believed to have healing properties, a wishing wall where visitors can leave their prayers, and a serene garden.
Yes, there is typically an entrance fee required to visit the House of the Virgin Mary. The fee can vary, so it is best to check the latest price before visiting.
Opening hours may vary depending on the season, but generally the site operates from early morning to late afternoon or early evening. Verify the current opening hours before your visit.
Most visitors spend around 30 minutes to an hour at the site, which allows for a peaceful visit of the house itself and time to explore the surrounding area.
Basic visitor facilities like restrooms and a souvenir shop are available at the site. There may also be light refreshments for sale.
Muslims also revere Mary, known in Arabic as Maryam, as she is the only woman named in the Quran and is described as one of the greatest of all women. The Quran recounts the Virgin Mary's purity and her miraculous birth of Jesus without a father.