• Ephesus Ancient City - This archaeological site at Ephesus beautifully balances historical preservation with visitor accessibility. Located on the southwest coast of modern Turkey, Ephesus was a hub for several great ancient civilizations, showcasing a rich blend of architecture and culture. In 356 BC, the Greeks constructed the Artemesium, a massive Ionic temple dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of fertility, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. By the 2nd century BC, Ephesus had become the fourth largest city in the eastern Roman Empire, renowned for its Artemision, the Library of Celsus, and its medical school.
• The Basilica of Saint John - It is believed that the evangelist St. John spent his final years in the region around Ephesus and was buried on the southern slope of Ayosolug Hill. Three hundred years after St. John’s death, a small chapel was built over his grave in the 4th century. During the reign of Emperor Justinian (527-565 AD), the church of St. John was transformed into a magnificent basilica.

The latter half of the first century was marked by persecution for early Christians. Apostle James and Stephen were martyred in Jerusalem, and Paul was sent to Rome and executed. According to tradition, John brought The Mother Mary to Ephesus, where he wrote his Gospel and later the Revelation on the Greek island of Patmos in 96 AD.

• Meryemana (The Virgin Mary’s House) - The House of the Virgin Mary is situated atop the “Bulbul” mountain, 9 km from Ephesus, and is enveloped in a serene, green environment. It is believed to be the place where Mary spent her final days, possibly arriving with Saint John, who spent several years in the area spreading Christianity. Mary chose this secluded spot over a bustling city life.

The House of the Virgin Mary is a classic example of Roman architecture, entirely built of stone. In the 4th century AD, a church was constructed, incorporating her house and grave. The original two-story house included an anteroom (now a place for candles), a bedroom and prayer room (Christian church area), and a room with a fireplace (chapel for Muslims).

• The Temple of Artemis - The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was built in the Ephesus area on a flat terrain that eventually turned into a swamp. Today, visitors to Ephesus can see the ruins of the foundations of this magnificent Hellenistic structure, which was entirely made of marble and adorned with sculpted column capitals and shafts.

• Pick Up and Drop Off for the Cruise Guests
• Transport by Luxury Private Vehicle
• All Parking Fees and Taxes
• English Speaking Tour Guide with Archaeological Background

• Entrance Fees (Tour guide will have pre-purchased tickets, so you can skip-the long ticket lines
• Lunch
• Spanish Speaking Tour Guide ($50 per group)