Selçuk from Ephesus to the İsa Bey Mosque
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Selçuk fits three thousand years of architecture into a few kilometres; the marble streets of a Roman city, a vast Byzantine basilica, the stone mosque of the Aydınid beylik and the lone column of one of the Seven Wonders. Start at Ephesus in the morning, call at the stone chapel on Bülbül Mountain, climb Ayasuluk Hill and come down to the İsa Bey Mosque, then close the day at the Ephesus Museum. At each stop we look at the building's history and architecture; a full day, with Müzekart.
Route Stops
Antique World's Shining Star: Ephesus Ancient City
Enter from the upper gate and descend Curetes Street to the Library of Celsus; allow three hours for the best-preserved example of Roman town planning.
Located in the Selçuk district of İzmir, the Ancient City of Ephesus is a unique destination for history enthusiasts and travelers, being one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world. With a rich history dating back to the 10th century BC, Ephesus is a port city that has witnessed the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods.
The most famous structure associated with Ephesus is the Library of Celsus. Built during the Roman period, this impressive building captivates visitors with its massive columns and intricate decorations. Once home to over 12,000 books, this library held great significance as a center of science and culture in its time.
In addition, the Great Theatre in Ephesus is one of the largest theatres of the ancient world. With a capacity of approximately 25,000 people, it was used for gladiator fights and theatrical performances during the Roman period. Today, this structure, still used for concerts and events, showcases the grandeur of the ancient era.
Also in Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis was an enormous structure considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Although only its ruins have survived to this day, the temple's splendor is praised in ancient sources.
Additionally, structures such as the Temple of Hadrian, the Trajan Fountain, the Odeon, and the Agora are among the important works that complement the enchanting atmosphere of Ephesus. Walking on the stone streets of the city, you feel as if you are embarking on a journey back two thousand years.
Christian World's Sacred Site: House of Virgin Mary
Climb Bülbül Mountain near the upper gate. Here you will find the stone chapel rebuilt in the 19th century on older foundations, remains of Byzantine walls and the silence of the forest.
Located at the foothills of Bülbül Mountain in the Selçuk district of İzmir, The House of Virgin Mary is an important pilgrimage site considered sacred by both Christians and Muslims. According to Christian belief, it is said that Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her last years here and passed away in this house.
The discovery of The House of Virgin Mary occurred in the 19th century thanks to the dreams of German nun Anne Catherine Emmerich. Although she had never been to Ephesus, research was conducted based on her descriptions, and this stone structure was discovered in 1891. Since then, the house, recognized as a sacred pilgrimage center, has also been approved by the Vatican. Important religious leaders such as Pope VI. Paul, Pope II. John Paul, and Pope XVI. Benedict have visited this site.
Today, The House of Virgin Mary welcomes thousands of visitors throughout the year with its peaceful atmosphere and spiritual significance. The small and simple stone structure contains a prayer room, an altar, and statues dedicated to the Virgin Mary. In the outdoor area, there are Healing Water Fountain, Wish Wall, and prayer areas. Visitors write their wishes on small papers and hang them on the wish wall, hoping to find healing by drinking the sacred water.
Especially on August 15th, a significant ceremony is held here, recognized as The Assumption of Mary. This sacred place, intertwined with nature, offers a captivating atmosphere not only for religious beliefs but also for visitors seeking tranquility and peace.
With its historical and spiritual value, The House of Virgin Mary is one of the most important sacred sites in İzmir and a special place that those visiting the Ancient City of Ephesus should definitely stop by. It is recommended for anyone seeking silence, peace, and spirituality to explore this site.
St. John's Basilica.
Back in Selçuk climb Ayasuluk Hill; the plan and re-erected columns of the six-domed basilica built under Justinian in the sixth century, with the castle on the same ticket.
Isa Bey Mosque.
Come down to the mosque of 1375 at the foot of the hill. Look at the columns reused from Ephesus and the wide courtyard; you are in one of the finest examples of beylik architecture.
Artemis Temple.
Walk ten minutes to the site of one of the Seven Wonders; a single column, the castle and mosque behind, and the scale left to your imagination.
Ephesus Museum.
Stop by the museum in the centre. The two Artemis statues and the pieces from the Terrace Houses tie together all the stones of your day.
