Discover Ephesus and Top Destinations in Western Turkey with an expert tour guide and a TripAdvisor Winner for 12 consecutive years.
Thecla was a saint of the early Christian Church, and a disciple of Paul the ApostleSaint Thecla was a noblewoman from Iconium (modern-day Konya in Turkey) in the 1st century AD. She was converted to Christianity after hearing St. Paul's teachings. She defied societal expectations by choosing a life of religious devotion over marriage. She faced persecution for her faith, surviving various trials and she became a missionary, traveling and spreading Christianity. The excavations in Ephesus have unveiled a significant discovery of a cave showcasing vital Early Christian frescoes and inscriptions. Situated on the southern side of ancient Ephesus, this find on the slopes is of great importance. Among the treasures found within are clear depictions of notable figures like Apostle Paul, Saint Thecla, and Thecla's mother Theocleia. These depictions from 5th century AD, sheds light on the rich religious history and cultural significance of Ephesus, offering valuable insights into Early Christian presence and practices. In the portrayal of Saint Thecla observing Saint Paul outside the window, a profound sense of reverence and storytelling is captured. The image delicately showcases Saint Paul seated with a book, embodying wisdom and devotion, as he gestures towards his audience with an eloquent preaching stance. Positioned behind Paul, Saint Thecla's mother adds a layer of caution and guidance with her raised hand, enhancing the narrative with an element of concern and protection.
Documentary of Cave of St. Paul in EphesusStory of Saint TheclaThecla is NOT mentioned in the book of Acts in the New Testament. The book of Acts chronicles the early history of the Christian church, focusing on the apostles and the spread of Christianity. Thecla was mentioned in apocryphal texts which are considered non-canonical, meaning their accuracy is uncertain. St. Paul during his second missionary, stopped in Iconium (Modern name Konya in Central Anatolia) where Thecla supposedly lived. In a peculiar turn of events, St. Paul found himself at the residence of Onesiphorus, where he delivered a compelling speech on detaching oneself from worldly pleasures and seeking a higher connection with God. A 17-year-old Thecla, residing nearby, attentively absorbed his words and was deeply moved by the impassioned message. The impact was so profound that Thecla made the bold decision to end her engagement, much to the dismay of her mother and intended spouse. The mother of Thecla: Theocleia complained about Paul to Iconium Governor Castillius, leading to the imprisonment of Paul. In an unexpected turn of events, Thela managed to outwit the prison guard by offering him a silver mirror. She successfully reached St. Paul. Displaying a remarkable act of reverence, Thecla knelt before Paul, honoring him with a kiss on his chains and attentively absorbing his counsel. As news of this encounter spread, causing a stir among Thecla's family and the Governor, the repercussions were severe as Paul faced physical abuse and public humiliation before being driven out of the city. Thecla was senteced to be burned. In a dramatic turn of events and miracles, the rain unexpectedly extinguishes the flames that want to consume her, allowing her to escape bravely. She cunningly disguises herself as a man and joins with Paul, seeking sanctuary in the serenity of a cemetery outside the city walls. Their journey takes an unexpected turn when they reach Psidian Antioch, they get into trouble again because of a nobleman named Alexandros who was in love with Thecla. This time she is put on a show in the arena to be torn apart by predators. Miracles happen and the animals do not attack Thecla and they protect her. Impressed by this and convinced by miraculous powers, the authorized governor of the region releases Thecla. Upon sharing her harrowing experience with Paul, Thecla bid Paul farewell before journeying to Iconium and subsequently to Seleucia. Taking refuge in a cave, Thecla dedicated herself to enlightening the people around her with unwavering determination. Through her words and actions, she sought to bring wisdom and hope to those in need. Thecla's mysterious disappearance in this cave has sparked widespread fascination among the surrounding Christians, leading them to perceive the location as sacred. The feast of St. Thecla, honoring her as the first female teacher and healer, is an annual celebration held in the cave church in Seleucia that served as a clandestine place of worship until 312 AD. Recognized on September 23 by the Catholic Church and September 24 by the Orthodox Church, this historical site attracted visitors from far and wide, including individuals from Cyprus and Jerusalem, captivated by St. Thecla's renowned legacy. This revered location, both revered as a pilgrimage site and commemorated as a place of martyrdom, has welcomed the presence of numerous notable figures over the years, adding to its significance and historical importance.
0 Comments
Was Timothy the bishop of the church in Ephesus?Timothy served as the first bishop of the church in Ephesus. The New Testament clearly states that Timothy travelled to Ephesus with St. Paul and accompanied him on his missionary journeys. Later, St. Paul had to leave the city of Ephesus due to a rebellion by the merchants in the Ephesus Grand Theatre. Timothy became the head of the Christian community in Ephesus. Who was Timothy?''Timothy, known as Timotheos in Ancient Greek, meaning honored by God. He was born in Lystra, a city in southwestern Central Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). The modern name for Lystra is Klistra, and it is located in south-central Turkey, approximately 24 miles southwest of Konya (Iconia in Biblical Times), near the modern village of Hatunsaray. Timothy was born from a Jewish mother who became Christian later and a Greek father. During his second missionary journey, St. Paul visited Lystra and met with Timothy. Along with Silas, Timothy became Paul's trusted deciple and missionary partner. The New Testament states that Timothy traveled with Apostle Paul, who was also his mentor. They travelled to the Ancient City of Ephesus. St. Paul with Timothy stayed in Ephesus for more than 2.5 years between 53-56 AD. Paul chose Ephesus as the center to spread the words of Jesus. Paul's missionary work in Ephesus had a significant impact on society, especially regarding the trade in idols associated with pagan gods, especially the Temple of Artemis. Paul's efforts to persuade the people to stop worshiping idols met with opposition, especially from the silversmith Demetrius, who led to rebellion in Ephesus in 56 AD. The riot forced Paul to leave the city, and he continued his travels until he was arrested by Roman soldiers in Jerusalem. Paul's claim to Roman citizenship led to his transfer to Rome, where he was eventually executed. Before he died while under house arrest, he wrote three letters to Ephesus; Two of these were written specifically to Timothy and show his devotion to his mission despite persecution. Timothy had a leadership role in the Ephesus church, as seen in the two letters of St. Paul addressed to him, called Timothy 1 and Timothy 2. As indicated in the letter Timothy 1: ''I asked you to stay longer in Ephesus when I went into Macedonia so you could command some people there to stop teaching false things. Tell them not to spend their time on stories that are not true and on long lists of names in family histories.'' Although the title "bishop" was not clearly indicated in reference to Timothy, the responsibilities and roles described in the New Testament are consistent with those of a bishop. Timothy was in charge with appointing leaders, teaching and promoting sound doctrine, and maintaining order within the church. These are all duties typically associated with the role of a bishop. Additionally, historical sources outside the New Testament also support the idea that Timothy served as bishop of the church in Ephesus. Early Christian writers such as Eusebius and Ignatius of Antioch refer to Timothy as bishop of Ephesus. This lends credibility to Timothy's claim that he held a leadership position in the church. What happened to Timothy at Ephesus?Presumably in 97 AD, Timothy was martyred under the command of Roman Emperor Trajan. According to a legend, he was beated to death by a crowd for protesting the exaggerated worship of the goddess Artemis. Admission Fees / Entry Ticket Costs for Ephesus and the nearby AttractionsWhen planning your visit to Ephesus, it is important to know ticket prices and opening hours to get the most out of your experience. Ticket prices are reasonably priced to reflect the historical importance and conservation efforts of Ephesus. As for opening hours, the site opens early in the morning, allowing you to explore the ruins when crowds are still minimal. What is the entrance fee for Ephesus? Revised entry ticket costs (Admission fees) for Ephesus and nearby attractions are as follows: Approximate cost of entrance fees:
* Credit Cards amd Turkish Liras are accepted for entrance fees. Euro cash is not accepted. * There is no admission fee for children under 8 years old. For the proof of age, please bring passport copies with you. * If you are going to visit other sites besides Ephesus in Western Turkey. There is a Museum Pass which provides multi visits to many sites without waiting in lines and you can make great savings. Valid for Ancient city of Ephesus, Basilica of St. John, Terrace Houses in Ephesus, Archaelogical Museum of Ephesus, Ancient city of Aphrodisias, Temple of Didyma, Ancient city of Smyrna, Ancient City of Miletus, Ancient City of Priene, Ancient City of Sardis, Ancient City of Pergamon, Asklepion of Pergamon and many others. For more information visit the following link: Museum Pass the Aegean - Multi visit pass for West Turkey For Private Ephesus Tour Costs, please visit: Ephesus Private Tour Rates Multi visit pass for Western TurkeyValid for Ancient city of Ephesus, Basilica of St. John, Terrace Houses in Ephesus, Archaelogical Museum of Ephesus, Ancient city of Aphrodisias, Temple of Didyma, Ancient city of Smyrna, Ancient City of Miletus, Ancient City of Priene, Ancient City of Pergamon, Asklepion of Pergamon, Hierapolis (Pamukkale), Ancient city of Laodicea and many others. The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism issued multi visit passes for the museums and sites located at the Aegean Region (Western Part) of Turkey. Museum Pass Aegean is available to foreign visitors and residents at museum and archeological site ticket offices. The cost is 95 Euros. Payment can be made in TL cash and with visa or mastercard at the ticket offices in front of the Museums and archaeological sites. Museum Pass the Aegean will save travellers time and money. Travellers will not be waiting in lines to purchase tickets at the museums. Travellers can visit multiple museums and sites within a week time. Museum Pass the Aegean is valid for 7 days. Travellers can make great savings with good itinerary planing. Museum Pass The Aegean and T.C. You can visit more than 40 museums and archaeological sites in İzmir, Aydın, Muğla and Denizli provinces affiliated to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for 7 days and take a pleasant journey in history.. MuseumPass Aegean provides one pass to each museum. Museum Pass Aegean costs 95 Euros Museum Pass the Aegean will allow you free entrance to all museums and archeological sites operated by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism in the provinces of İzmir, Aydın and Muğla, which cover Ancient city of Ephesus, Basilica of St. John, Terrace Houses in Ephesus, Archaelogical Museum of Ephesus, Ancient city of Aphrodisias, Temple of Didyma, Ancient city of Smyrna, Ancient City of Miletus, Ancient City of Priene, Ancient City of Pergamon, Asklepion of Pergamon, Hierapolis (Pamukkale), Ancient city of Laodicea and many others. * Note that House of Virgin Mary in Ephesus and Ancient City of Sardis, are not covered by Museum Pass Aegean. Museum Pass Aegean is accepted at the following sites:Private Biblical Tours of LaodiceaLaodicea is home to one of the seven holy churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation of the new testament. Only city in Anatolia with four baths and two theaters. Laodicea also boasted a large ancient stadium (Capacity 25.000 people). History of LaodiceaThe city was formerly known as Diospolis, meaning the city of Zeus. The city was named after the wife of Seleucid King Antiochus II: Loadice. The population initially consisted of Greeks, Jews and the soldiers of Antiochus II. The city of Laodicea was one of the chief seats of Christianity. Laodicea is mentioned in the epistle to the Colossians and is one of the seven churches of Asia mentioned in the Book of Revelations. The Laodicean church is thought to have been founded by the Colossian Epaphras, a Christian preacher and one of the diciples of St. Paul Laodicea is located approximately 100 miles west of Ephesus and was connected to Ephesus with a trade road during the reign of Roman Empire at West, Anatolia. The city was founded in a valley formed by Lycus River. Besides Laodicea there were two more cities stood here: Hierapolis (Pamukkale) and Colossae. These 3 cities were located at the Asia Province of Roman Empire. Laodicea was located 6 miles away from Hierapolis (Pamukkale). The Lycus river was flowing between them. There area where these cities were founded was wealthy and fertile. Also the area became known with wool, textile industry and dying of these garments. Especially Loadicea was known with glossy black sheeps wool. According to some ancient histiorians, the chemicals in the water which the sheeps drank made the wool glossy and shining. Laodicea was located in the junction point of the trade roads which made the city rich. Loadicea became the financial headquaters of the area. Laodicea was also known with a philosophy and a medical school. The medical school of Laodicea was known with ear and eye medications. The city had 2 theaters. The small theater had a 8000 people capacity and the big one had 12000 people capacity. As mentioned in the New Testament Col 4: 16), there is a letter sent to Laodicea by Paul which has never been discovered. Laodicea is mentioned as the lukewarm city in the new testament. There was no source of water where the city was founded. The water is supplied to the city from Hierapolis (Pamukkale). Pamukkale was known with the hot thermal springs, by the time the water reached to Laodciea, it was lukewarm. The church of Laodicea is said to be lukewarm like the water. This was the only congregation in the book of revelation where nothing good about it is said. Laodicea was a rich city in financial terms but a very poor city in faith. The area had a major Jewish population, the jews came to the area in the 2nd century BC from Babylon. They were sent by Antiochus the Great as paid soldiers. These jews became the early christians and introduced trade to the area. Cicero the famous Roman statesman served as the governor of the area and lived in Laodicea. Roman Empreror Hadrian spent a summer here. On of the highlights to be seen in the ancient city of Laodicea, is a 4th century AD church which was ordered by Constantine the Roman Emperor. The church is recently re-erected and opened to the public visits. This church is considered to be one of the earliest church buildings of the world. Trajan's FountainThe Trajan Fountain in the Ancient City of Laodicea in Denizli revived recently after 1900 years. The single-storey monumental fountain has a dynamic facade arrangement. The building, designed with a large square in front, has an apseal pool and a gallery facade with columns. On the eastern wing of the façade facing the square, there are rules and duties regarding water laws, water use, and protection of the line. Visitors will witness the 3-meter statue of Trajan and a slave which depicts a Dacian enemy soldier with his hands tied behind isr back. The statue shows that Trajan is cruel to enemies but protective of his friends, and that he is a powerful emperor who protects art. Fountain was built during the reign of as Trajan. During the reign of Trajan, the Roman Empire had its largest borders. The emperor, who lived between 53-117, made Mesopotamia a Roman province during his expeditions to Iran. Laodicea, is 3 hours drive to Kusadasi. Visit to Laodicea can be combined with a visit to Pamukkale (Hierapolis). We also offer 7 Churches of Revelation Tour Turkey including Laodicea. Contact us today for your personalised quote.
How much does it cost to go to Ephesus?
Private Ephesus Tours for Norwegian Jade Passengers from Kusadasi PortNorwegian Jade will be making 22 calls to Kusadasi Port in 2024. We offer exclusive private Ephesus tours for Norwegian Jade passengers. Norwegian Jade will call to the Port of Kusadasi will only stay half day. We customize private tours of Ephesus depending the port timings of Norwegian Jade at the Port of Kusadasi Suggested private Ephesus tour programs for Norwegian Jade passengers are as as follows: KUSADASI - No:1 Halfday (3.5 hours) Tour of Ephesus,Temple of Artemis Meet with your Ephesus private guide in front of the Kusadasi port passenger terminal. Drive to the country. See the Temple of Artemis, one of the wonders of the ancient world. Then a visit to Ephesus is a visit to one of the best preserved ancient cities in the world. Ancient historians believed that Ephesus was founded by the Amazons, but now, it is believed to have been the Hittite city of Apasas. With your guide, you will see the Odeion, where the advisory council held its meetings and the Roman Baths, as well as many other columns, monuments and ruins, including the Celsus Library and the Grand Theater of Ephesus. En-route to Kusadasi enjoy the scenery or shopping opportunity. KUSADASI - No:2 HalfDay (4.5 hours) Temple of Artemis, Ephesusm House of Mary After meeting your Ephesus private guide drive through the fertile lands. Your first stop will be the Temple of Artemis, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world. Afterwards proceed to the mountain where Virgin Mary is believed to spent her 9 years. The house is approximately 1000 feet above sea level and running as an active chapel. Roman Catholics believe that Virgin Mary came to Ephesus with Saint. John 5 years after the crucification. At the age of 63 she is assumed to heaven. Altough there is no fact that Virgin Mary lived here approximately 1.5 million people visit the site each year. After 30 minutes visit to the House of Mary, drive to ancient city of Ephesus. You will be dropped at the upper gate of Ephesus with your Ephesus tour guide. Start your Ephesus Walking Tour, exploring the city. You will be walking down the hill approximately 2.5hrs. You will see the Odeon, the basilica, domitian square, fountain of Trajan, Celcus library, Terrace Houses(optional), Marble street, the Grand Theater of Ephesus and the Harbour Street. You will be endng your tour at the bottom gate. Your driver and Ephesus tour guide will take you to another site or drop you at the desired location. For private Ephesus Tour costs, please click here. For more information, please do not hesitate to contact us. 2 Tage Ephesus Pamukkale private Tour auf Deutsch von KusadasiWir bieten 2 Tage private Touren durch Ephesus und Pamukkale von Kusadasi, Selcuk und Sirince mit ausgezeichneten deutschsprachigen, lizenzierten Reiseleitern an. Nachfolgend finden Sie die Details zum Tourprogramm. Die Tour kann an die Bedürfnisse der Gäste angepasst werden, wo sie übernachten und fliegen möchten. Für weitere Informationen kontaktieren Sie uns bitte. Tag 1: Pamukkale-Tour Fahren Sie ca. 3 Stunden nach der Abfahrt von Kusadasi oder Selcuk. Betreten Sie die Stätte durch das Nordtor und gehen Sie durch die antike Nekropole (Friedhof). Bisher haben italienische Archäologen über 1200 Gräber in der Gegend ausgegraben. Die Gesamtzahl wird voraussichtlich 3000 übersteigen. Nirgendwo auf der Welt kann man einen so riesigen alten Friedhof sehen. Danach sehen Sie das Römische Bad, gehen Sie durch das Domitian Gate auf der Frantinus Avenue, um die anderen Überreste zu sehen. Sehen Sie sich das riesige römische Theater mit einer Kapazität von 10.000 an. Schlendern Sie über die Kalksteinterrassen von Pamukkale. Genießen Sie die atemberaubende Aussicht. Die Wassertemperatur beträgt 32 Grad. Für Interessierte besteht die Möglichkeit in den alten Teichen von Kleopatra zu schwimmen. Rückkehr nach Kusadasi oder Selcuk. Tag 2: Ephesus-Tour Tempel der Artemis + Ephesus + Haus der Maria Nachdem Sie Ihren Reiseleiter getroffen haben, reisen Sie durch das fruchtbare Land. Ihr erster Halt ist der Tempel der Artemis, eines der 7 Weltwunder der Antike. Dann geht es weiter zu dem Berg, auf dem die Jungfrau Maria ihre 9 Jahre verbracht haben soll. Das Haus liegt ca. 300 Meter über dem Meeresspiegel und wird als aktive Kapelle betrieben. Katholiken glauben, dass die Jungfrau Maria mit dem Heiligen nach Ephesus kam. Johannes 5 Jahre nach der Kreuzigung. Im Alter von 63 Jahren wurde sie in den Himmel aufgenommen. Obwohl die Jungfrau Maria hier nicht gelebt hat, besuchen jedes Jahr rund 1,5 Millionen Menschen die Stätte. Nach einem 30-minütigen Besuch des Hauses Mariens begeben Sie sich in die antike Stadt Ephesus. Sie werden mit Ihrem Guide am oberen Tor von Ephesus abgesetzt. Beginnen Sie mit der Erkundung der Stadt. Sie wandern etwa 1,5 Stunden den Hügel hinunter. Sie werden das Odeon, die Basilika, den Domitian-Platz, den Trajan-Brunnen, die Celcus-Bibliothek, Reihenhäuser (optional), die Marble Street, das Große Theater von Ephesus und die Harbour Street sehen. Sie beenden Ihre Tour am unteren Tor. Ihr Fahrer und Reiseleiter bringt Sie zurück zu Ihrem Hotel. Kosten der oben genannten 2-tägigen privaten Ephesus-Pamukkale-Tour: Für private Tourkosten kontaktieren Sie uns bitte. Tarife Abdeckung:
Preise decken nicht ab:
* Wenn Sie einen privaten Transfer vom Flughafen Izmir nach Kusadasi benötigen. Die Kosten für den privaten Transfer betragen 50 Euro.
Für die Reservierung ist keine Vorauszahlung erforderlich. Um Enttäuschungen zu vermeiden, empfehlen wir Ihnen, Ihre private Tour-Reservierung so früh wie möglich vorzunehmen. Zahlungsbedingungen: Die Zahlung kann in Euro, Türkischen Lira oder US-Dollar in bar am Ende der Tour erfolgen. Für die Buchung ist keine Vorauszahlung erforderlich. Private Tour of Ephesus and Virgin Mary HouseAccording to common Christian belief, Mary was brought to Ephesus by the Apostle John after the resurrection of Jesus and spent here her last years. This is based on the belief that John came to Ephesus and the Biblical statement that Jesus entrusted him to John's care. We offer private tours of Ephesus and Virgin Mary House with local licensed tour guides from Kusadasi, Izmir and Selcuk in English, Spanish, Russian, German and Portuguese. Did Mary go to Ephesus?Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus, is believed to spent the last years of her life in Ephesus. According to the Christian tradition, Virgin Mary came to Ephesus with St. John and lived nearby Ephesus until her Assumption (according to Catholics) or Dormition (according to Greek Orthodox). Is the house of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus? The House of the Virgin Mary is a Catholic shrine located on Mount Koressos, 6km away from Ephesus Ancient City. Ephesus Virgin Mary Tour Program:Temple of Artemis, Ephesus , House of Mary After meeting your guide drive through the fertile lands. Your first stop will be the Temple of Artemis, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world. Afterwards proceed to the mountain where Virgin Mary is believed to spent her 9 years. The house is approximately 1000 feet above sea level and running as an active chapel. Roman Catholics believe that Virgin Mary came to Ephesus with Saint. John 5 years after the crucification. At the age of 63 she is assumed to heaven. Although there is no fact that Virgin Mary lived here approximately 1.5 million people visit the site each year. After 30 minutes visit to the House of Mary, drive to ancient city of Ephesus. You will be dropped at the upper gate of Ephesus with your Ephesus tour guide. Start exploring the city. You will be walking down the hill approximately 1.5hrs. You will see the Odeon, the basilica, Domitian square, fountain of Trajan, Celcus library, Terrace Houses (optional), Marble street, the Grand Theater of Ephesus and the Harbor Street. You will be ending your tour at the bottom gate. Your tour guide will take you to another site or drop you at the desired location. Tour Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary For more information about Ephesus Virgin Mary Tour , please contact us
5 Days Private Tour of Western TurkeyEmbark on a captivating 5-day private tour of Western Turkey to experience an enriching journey through historical and cultural gems. Your itinerary includes must-see destinations such as Pergamon, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Aphrodisias, Priene, Miletus, Didyma, Sirince, and Izmir. With expert guides leading the way, you will delve into the ancient ruins of Ephesus, marvel at the natural wonders of Pamukkale's thermal springs, and immerse yourself in the enchanting village of Sirince. This meticulously curated tour offers a seamless blend of relaxation and exploration, promising an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Western Turkey. Day 1- Arrive Izmir - Pergamon - Overnight in Kusadasi Boarding your vehicle in Izmir airport drive to the north of Izmir, pass fertile fields and olive trees, to the present day, modern town of Bergama, once known as Pergamon, a great center of culture. The ancient city was a capital of the Pergamon Kingdom, and it was here that parchment paper was invented. Today, Pergamon is one of Turkey's finest archeological sites. Drive up to the Acropolis, to see the remains of the citadel and the city walls, the foundations of the Zeus Altar, and the Royal Palace. The famous Pergamon Library once contained 200.000 scrolls which were a gift to Cleopatra from Mark Anthony. Walk through the Agora and see the restored Trajan Temple and the remains of the Demeter, Athena and Dionysus Temples. On the steep slopes of the Acropolis you will visit the Theatre, which once held as many 15.000 spectators, view the town and its surroundings from this site. Continue to the town en route, see the Red Basilica which was used as a temple dedicated to the Egyptian godess of Serapis. Enjoy lunch in local Restaurant of Bergama and have a taste of Turkish food. In the afternoon, visit the Asclepion, a healing center from the 4th century BC and one of the most important sites of Pergamon. Here patients had herbalistic, aquatic and psychological treatment. Visit the Temple of Asclepios, the theatre, and walk through the sacred corridor and down the ancient,arcaded, marble-paved boulevard. Drive to Kusadasi. Overnight in Kusadasi. Day 2 - Fullday Tour of Ephesus Meet with your guide in front of your hotel in Kusadasi. Drive to the country. Your first stop on this fascinating tour is at the HOUSE OF VIRGIN MARY. Then, you will continue on to visit ancient EPHESUS, one of the most magnificent and best-preserved ancient sites in the world. See the Odeion, the Market Basilica, Curetes Street, Bath,Celsus Library, Marble Street and the Great Theater with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. Afterwards visit the BASILICA OF ST. JOHN and see the TEMPLE OF ARTEMIS, one of the wonders of the ancient world. En-route to Kusadasi enjoy the scenery or shopping opportunity. Overnight in Kusadasi. Day 3 - Fullday Tour of Pamukkale and Aphrodisias After departing from Kusadasi, drive east approx. 3 hours. Visit Aphrodisias, see the finest works of marble from Roman Period and the 30.000 spectator capacity gigantic roman stadium. Continue to Hierapolis (Pamukkale) Enter the site from North Gate and walk through the Ancient Necropolis (Cemetery). So far Italian archaeologists excavated over 1200 tombs in the area. The total number is expected to exceed 3000. No where in the world you can see such a gigantic ancient cemetery. Afterwards see the Roman Bath, walk through Domitian Gate, Frantinus Avenue to see the other remains. View the huge Roman theater having a capacity of 10000. Walk on the calcium deposit terraces of Pamukkale. Enjoy the stunning views. The water temperature is 32 degrees. At the end of the tour we can drop you at a hotel in Pamukkale or drive you back to Kusadasi. Day 4 - Fullday (8hours) Priene, Miletus and Didyma Meet with your guide at your hotel in Kusadasi. Following the departure from the pier, the first stop will be PRIENE. The ancient harbor city of Priene probably changed its location when the silt of the Meander River threatened to bury it. Now it is nearly 16km away from the sea. The original place of the city has never been found but it was probably a peninsula with two harbors. Priene was laid out on a Hippodamian system of grid plan at the foot of a spectacular cliff on mount Mycale and contained many famous examples of Hellenistic art and architecture. All the streets intersect at right angles. Next visit MILETUS, an ancient city located near the mouth of the Meandros River. Miletus owed its importance to its position on the trade routes. It was one of the largest cities in Anatolia. Highly prosperous, it founded many colonies and was the home of the ancient philosophers Anaximander, Anaximenes and Thales, the town planner Hippodamus and architect Isidorus. Having a prominent position, Miletus became the most important port in this area and it was the most active member of the twelve cities of the Ionian Confederation. From the 7th century B.C. the city has been controlled in turn by the Persians, Roman and Seljuk Turks. The last visit in the tour will be DIDYMA. The world Didyma meant "twins" and it was associated by some as being the meeting place of Zeus and Leto to have their twins Apollo and Artemis. Didyma was famed as a prophecy center dedicated to Apollo, which served a similar purpose as the Delphi of Anatolia. It was not a city but a sanctuary linked to Miletus by Milesians with a 12 mile sacred road. Drive back to Kusadasi. Day 5 - Sirince Village and Izmir City After departing your hotel in Kusadasi, you will arrive at SIRINCE VILLAGE. This old Orthodox Village, 30 km from Kusadasi, was once "Cirkince"(ugly). Indeed its inhabitants gave this name on the purpose as they did not want to be bothered by foreigners nor to share the beauty of their village. Still after years, visitors understood that the village was not ugly and called it "Sirince" (pretty). Today the village is a perfect synthesis of Turkish-Greek culture as of the 1920's; after the Turkish Independence War, people exchange between Greek and Turks has occurred and all those typical Greek houses, though they kept their original outside characteristics, have received the local layout inside. At Sirince Village you will have chance of seeing the local life at a village and purchasing some small local souvenirs and handicrafts. The village is also famous for its local grape and other fruit wines. Afterwards drive to Izmir City Center. Visit the historical Kemeralti Bazaar, which is the most vibrant shopping center of Izmir for centuries covering a huge area. In 17th and 18th centuries French and British merchants first and in 19th C AD Turkish immigrants later from Greece and Aegean Island to Izmir have made a great contribution for enlarging the shopping mall as to be the center of trade in Izmir. It began expanding to a large area throughout the Konak square with a big variety of shops. Transfer to Izmir AIrport. End of services. For more information, please contact us.
Private Ephesus Excursions for Seabourn Passengers: Seabourn Encore from Kusadasi Port.Seabourn Encore will call at Kusadasi Port this year. First call of Seabourn Encore will be on April 20th 2024. There will be 14 port of calls of Seabourn Encore to Kusadasi Cruise Port in 2024.
Kusadasi is Turkey's most popular cruise port, a beach town and the gateway to the ancient Greco-Roman city of Ephesus. Ephesus, now a ruin and an important archaeological site. Ephesus was once one of the most important Roman cities in Asia Minor. It was built in the Hellenistic period and fell under Roman control. Here you will find the remarkable facade of the Library of Celsus, the Grand Theater that once housed 25,000 people and the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. We offer the highest quality private shore excursions conducted by local expert tour guides in the most cost-effective way for our guests from Seabourn Ships. Our private Ephesus tours are led by finest English, Spanish, German and Russian speaking licensed tour guides of the area. The cost of the private Ephesus tours are much less than the ones offered by Seabourn. As a former Seabourn employee, (worked on Seabourn Sun as an Asst. Shore Excursions Manager) I am well aware of guests needs and expectations. Let us take you to an unforgettable Ephesus private tour of one of the major Roman cities: Ephesus. For more information please do not hesitate to contact us. Private Ephesus Tours for Norwegian Cruise Line Passengers from Kusadasi Port
2 days Private Tours of Ephesus and Pergamon TourWe provide exclusive 2-day Private Tours of Ephesus and Pergamon departing from Izmir Airport and Hotels of Izmir, Kusadasi, Selcuk, and Sirince. Our meticulously crafted tour program offers a detailed itinerary that can be tailored to suit our guests' preferences, including accommodation options and flight schedules. Our goal is to ensure a personalized and enriching experience for all our guests. For further details or inquiries, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us directly. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we look forward to creating a memorable and bespoke tour just for you. Day 1: Pergamon Tour Meet with your tour guide at Izmir Airpor or at your hotel in Izmir or Kusadasi or Selcuk or Sirince. Drive to the north of Izmir, pass fertile fields and olive trees, to the present day, modern town of Bergama, once known as Pergamon, a great center of culture. The ancient city was a capital of the Pergamon Kingdom, and it was here that parchment paper was invented. Today, Pergamon is one of Turkey's finest archeological sites. Drive up to the Acropolis, to see the remains of the citadel and the city walls, the foundations of the Zeus Altar, and the Royal Palace. The famous Pergamon Library once contained 200.000 scrolls which were a gift to Cleopatra from Mark Anthony. Walk through the ruins and see the restored Trajan Temple and the remains of the Athena and Dionysus Temples. On the steep slopes of the Acropolis you will visit the Theatre, which once held as many 10.000 spectators, view the town and its surroundings from this site. Continue to the town en route, see the Red Basilica which was used as a temple dedicated to the Egyptian godess of Serapis. Enjoy lunch in local Restaurant of Bergama and have a taste of Turkish food. In the afternoon, visit the Asclepion, a healing center from the 4th century BC and one of the most important sites of Pergamon. Here patients had herbalistic, aquatic and psychological treatment. Visit the Temple of Asclepios, the theatre, and walk through the sacred corridor and down the ancient, arcaded, marble-paved boulevard. Drive back to your hotel. Day 2: Ephesus Tour Meet with your tour guide at your hotel in Kusadasi. Drive to the country. Your first stop on this fascinating tour is at the House of Virgin Mary. Then, you will continue on to visit ancient Ephesus, one of the most magnificent and best-preserved ancient sites in the world. See the Odeion, the Market Basilica, Curetes Street, Bath, Celsus Library, Marble Street and the Great Theatre with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. Afterwards visit the Basilica of St. John and see the Temple of Artemis, one of the wonders of the ancient world. End your tour at Izmir Airport or your hotel in Izmir or Kusadasi or Selcuk or Sirince. Cost: 515 Euro (Total to be paid for your party of 1-6 people) Rates Cover:
Rates Do Not Cover:
* There is no prepayment required for the reservation. To avoid disappointment, we recommend to make your private tour reservation at earliest possible. Payment Terms: Payment can be made in Euro, Turkish Liras or US Dollar cash at the end of the tour. There is no prepayment required for the booking. Cancellation Policy You can cancel a tour 72 hours in advance of your tour departure without any charges. If you would like to cancel a tour, simply send us an email and we will be happy to assist you. Once you are within the 24 hour tour departure window, the tour becomes non-refundable. This is because our guide and vehicle have set aside space to accommodate your request and will often not be able to fill that space with another customer so close to departure. For more information, please contact us. Private Tours of Ephesus and Pamukkale for Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest and Azamara Pursuit PassengersAzamara Cruises is scheduled to do 20 port of calls to Kusadasi Port in 2024.
On May 11th Azamara Pursuit will be calling back to Kusadasi Cruise Port during 7 Night Greece Intensive Voyage. Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest will follow Azamara Pursuit to Kusadasi Cruise Port. We offer Private Ephesus Tours and Private Pamukkale Tours with various tour itineraries for Azamara Journey and Azamara Pursuit passengers calling to the Kusadasi Cruise Port with excellent licensed local tour guides and luxury vehicles in various sizes. Please visit the following links to choose the right private tour itinerary for you with reasonable prices than the cruise ships offer. For more information please visit the following linkcs: Ephesus Tours from Kusadasi Port Pamukkale Tours from Kusadasi Port For the the booking please contact us. We are looking forward to the calls of Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest and Azamara Pursuit. 7 Churches of Revelation Tour visiting Biblical sites in Western Turkey. 7 Churches Tour from Izmir
Smyrna (Izmir) - Pergamon (Bergama) - Laodicea -
Ephesus - Sardis - Philadephia - Thyatira - Hierapolis (Pamukkale)
We offer private 7 Churches Tours in Turkey visiting the 7 Churches of Revelation,
Seven Churches of Revelation Tour with expert tour guides. There are many biblical sites in Turkey. For many generations Christians, or those who simply have an interest in Christian history and traditions, have traveled to the western part of Turkey which was known as Asia Minor in the biblical times, The Asia Minor is known for the 7 churches of the Book of Revelation. On top of that St. Paul travelled to the area several times. Near Ephesus, there is a possible house where Virgin Mary spent her last years. Ephesus and the surrounding areas had a history of spiritual awakening and Christian revival. When did John wrote the Book of Revelation?
Apostle John, one of the important figures of early Christianity, faced exile from Asia Minor to Patmos in 95 AD during the reign of Roman Emperor Domitianus. This event had a significant impact on the world of faith, providing the ideal environment for the writing of the Book of Revelation. Around 96 AD, while living on the Island of Patmos, located approximately 50 nautical miles southwest of Ephesus and 33 nautical miles west of Miletus. The exile of the Apostle John to Patmos and the subsequent writing of the Book of Revelation stands as a pivotal moment in Christian history, demonstrating the power of faith even in the face of difficulties.
What are the names of 7 Churches of Revelations today?
The Seven Churches of Revelation are ancient churches that St. John wrote about in the book of Revelation of the New Testament. All the 7 churches mentioned are located at the western part of Turkey. Biblical sites in Western Turkey:
Can you visit the 7 churches of Revelation?
Absolutely! Visiting the seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation is an exciting and meaningful journey. Exploring these historic sites can give you a unique insight into the early Christian period and deepen your understanding of the messages conveyed in the biblical text. So if you are passionate about biblical history, visiting the Seven Churches of Revelation can be a captivating and enriching experience.
Where did Apostle John die?
It is said that the Apostle John, one of the important figures in the history of Christianity, lived a long life and eventually died of natural causes in Ephesus around 98 AD during the reign of Roman Emperor Trajan. Remarkably, he was the only apostle who was not martyred, while the remaining eleven faced persecution and lost their lives for their faith. Four centuries after the burial, Byzantine Emperor Justinian sought to honor the memory of the Apostle John by ordering the construction of a large church over his burial site in Ephesus. This magnificent structure, known as the Basilica of St. John, still stands today in Selcuk, a charming town in western Turkey. Built to commemorate the apostle's life and teachings, the basilica is a testament to the enduring legacy of John the Apostle and his significant contributions to the spread of Christianity.
Walking in the footsteps of Saint John
We have a background in sharing the Western Part of Turkey's Christian Heritage with others, having worked with a broad selection of churches and mission organisations over the years. We are always pleased to organise Biblical Tours of Western Turkey, visiting seven churches of revelation and beyond. We are sure that you will find them interesting whether you are a Christian or religious person or simply interested.
Our 3-Day Tour of 7 Churches offers a unique opportunity to discover the historical and religious significance of the seven churches mentioned in the book of Revelation. Besides these precious places, we also added a visit to Hierapolis, especially the place where the Apostle Philip was martyred. Also, get ready for a fascinating experience on the surreal white calcium carbonate terraces of Pamukkale. This tour promises to leave you with a deeper understanding of these biblical landmarks and a deep sense of connection to history. Depending on how long you area able to tour for. A one day Biblical Ephesus Tour can take you to many sights of Christian interest in Ephesus. If you have 2 or more days there are many more possibilities such as a tour incorporating ancient cities of Pergamon, Laodicea, Hierapolis (Pamukkale) etc. Get in touch for more details. 1We are happy to offer two different 7 Churches Tour options depending on your preferred travel time. Option No. 1, which operates between April and October, allows you to enjoy the beauties and favorable weather of Turkey in these months, allowing you to explore historical churches in pleasant conditions. On the other hand, Option No. 2, which operates between November and March, provides a unique perspective as you witness the tranquility of the winter months and delve into the rich Christian Heritage of Asia Minor. Whatever option you choose, our professional team is expertly trained to provide you with an extraordinary and immersive journey, offering insightful guidance and ensuring your comfort throughout the tour. We look forward to creating an unforgettable experience for you when you embark on this spiritual journey in Turkey. Below please find suggested 3 Days Seven Churches Tour Turkey itineraries:
7 Churches Tour Turkey Price: 950 Euro (Total to be paid for the group of 1-5 people)
* Above rate is NOT a per person rate. It is total to be paid for your group. The price includes:
The price does not include:
Payment Terms Private Tour Payments can be made in Euros, Turkish Liras, British Pounds and US Dollars cash at the end of the tour. There is no prepayment required for the booking. We only accept cash payments. Entrance fees can be paid with credit cards. * We recommend the guests to obltain Museum Pass Turkey or Museum Pass Aegean. This would be a more economical option for the costs of entry to the sites. For more information and availability, we kindly request that you reach out to us. At your convenience, please don't hesitate to contact our team, as we are more than eager to assist you. Rest assured that our dedicated staff is ready to provide you with comprehensive details and guide you through the process. We value your interest and look forward to the opportunity to serve you. Recommended hotels to stay during your 7 Churches Tour Turkey: (booking.com links)
|
Ephesus Travel Guideby TransBalkan Tours is a fully licenced tour operator since 1963 and a member of TURSAB. Ephesus Tour from Kusadasi Port
Ephesus Tour from Izmir Ephesus Tour from Selcuk Ephesus Tour Guide Kusadasi Airport Transfer Kusadasi Pamukkale Tour Ephesus Biblical Tour Istanbul Ephesus Tour Ephesus Guided Tour Ephesus Shore Excursions Efes Tur Rehberi Ephesus Walking Tour 7 Churches Tour Turkey Categories
All
Archives
April 2024
|
Ephesus Travel Guide by TransBalkan Tours is a fully licenced tour operator and a member of TURSAB. License: A 776.