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Where Is Mary’s House in Turkey? A Complete Guide to the Sacred Shrine Near Ephesus
If you're planning a trip to Ephesus, Turkey, one of the most spiritual stops you must include is Mary’s House — a place steeped in tradition, history, and peace. Known locally as Meryem Ana Evi (House of the Virgin Mary), this sacred site draws pilgrims and travelers from all around the world.
Mary’s House in Turkey
Where Is Mary’s House Located?
Mary’s House is located on Mount Koressos (Turkish: Bülbül Dağı, meaning “Nightingale Mountain”), overlooking the ancient city of Ephesus in İzmir Province, western Turkey. It is located about:
- 7–9 km southeast of Selçuk — the closest modern town to Ephesus
- Roughly 5–6 km from the Upper Gate of the Ephesus archaeological site
- Around 70 km from İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport
Why Mary’s House Is Special
According to Christian tradition, after the crucifixion of Jesus, the Apostle John brought mother Mary to this region near Ephesus, where she spent her final years. While the Catholic Church has not officially certified the house’s authenticity, countless pilgrims believe it was her last dwelling. Consider this house one of the most probable places in the world where Virgin Mary spent her last years.
In the late 19th century, following the visions of German nun Anne Catherine Emmerich, Lazarist priests identified and restored the site — transforming it into a pilgrimage shrine that’s revered by both Christians and Muslims.
In the late 19th century, following the visions of German nun Anne Catherine Emmerich, Lazarist priests identified and restored the site — transforming it into a pilgrimage shrine that’s revered by both Christians and Muslims.
What You’ll Find at the Site
Today, Mary’s House is a humble stone structure, more like a chapel than a traditional home. When you visit, you can expect:
- A peaceful prayer area inside the house
- Lush gardens surrounding the shrine
- Holy spring water believed by visitors to have healing properties
- A “Wishing Wall” where visitors leave prayers or notes
How to Get There
There is no direct public transport to Mary’s House but it’s easy to reach from Selçuk or Ephesus:
- By Car or Taxi – The quickest way is a short 15-minute drive up the mountain road from Selçuk.
- Guided Tours – Many Ephesus day tours include a visit to Mary’s House.
- Walking – Ambitious hikers can walk from the Ephesus Upper Gate along marked paths, though this can take around an hour due to the uphill terrain.
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