House of the Virgin Mary

Historical Site

On Bülbül Mountain near Ephesus — a stone chapel believed to be where the Virgin Mary spent her final years, revered by the Catholic and Orthodox worlds.

On the green slopes of Bülbül Mountain near the ancient city of Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary is one of the most important places of pilgrimage and faith in the Christian world. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary came to Ephesus with Saint John after the crucifixion of Jesus and spent the final years of her life here.

The small stone building visited today is arranged as a church-chapel and contains a statue representing the Virgin Mary. Visited and blessed by several popes, the site is held sacred by both Catholic and Orthodox Christians, and is also a respected place of visit for Muslims. The water flowing from the fountains just below the chapel is believed to be healing, while the cloths and papers tied to the "wishing wall" below are said to help wishes come true.

Surrounded by pine forests, its tranquil atmosphere makes it not only a centre of faith but a special stop for anyone seeking peace. It is usually visited on the same day as Ephesus; it is about two and a half hours from our hotel.