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House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi) Tours and Tickets

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Emotional Experience Guide (EN)

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Hidden Gems (EN)

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Local Insights (EN)

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Photo Opportunity (EN)

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Practical Information (EN)

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1. The House of the Virgin Mary, also known as Meryem Ana Evi in Turkish, is located on top of Mount Koressos near the ancient city of Ephesus in Selçuk, Turkey. It is believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus.

According to tradition, after the crucifixion of Jesus, St. John the Evangelist took Mary with him to Ephesus, where they lived until Mary’s assumption into heaven. The exact location of Mary’s house was discovered in the 19th century based on the visions of a German nun named Anne Catherine Emmerich. The authenticity of the house is still a subject of debate among theologians and historians.

The house is a small stone building with two rooms and a fireplace. It is believed to have been built in the 1st century AD and has been restored several times. The interior of the house is simple, with religious icons and candles. Outside the house, there is a beautiful courtyard with a fountain and benches where visitors can sit and contemplate.

2. The House of the Virgin Mary is open to visitors every day from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, it is important to note that the opening hours may vary depending on the season, so it is best to check the official website or contact them directly for updated information. Unfortunately, there is no available phone number provided for the public.

3. The entrance fee for the House of the Virgin Mary is separate from the entrance fee for the nearby Ephesus ancient city. As of 2021, the ticket price for the House of the Virgin Mary is 50 Turkish lira (TL) for adults and 25 TL for children aged 7 to 12. Children under 7 years old can enter for free. It is worth noting that the ticket includes a shuttle service from the entrance gate to the house, as private vehicles are not allowed on the mountain.

Transportation to the House of the Virgin Mary is relatively easy. It is located about 9 kilometers from the town of Selçuk, which is well connected by public transportation. Visitors can take a local bus (dolmuş) from the Selçuk bus station to the house. Alternatively, taxis and private tours are also available for transportation to the site.

Atatürk Mahallesi

As you approach the House of the Virgin Mary in Selçuk, a sense of reverence washes over you. The journey begins with a winding path through lush gardens filled with vibrant flowers, their sweet fragrance dancing through the air and wrapping you in a blanket of serenity.

As you draw closer to the humble stone house nestled on the hillside, you can feel the energy shift around you. The ancient walls seem to whisper stories of the past, of a mother’s love and a divine presence that once graced this sacred space.

You step across the threshold, the worn wooden floor creaking beneath your feet. The air is cool and still, carrying a hint of incense and lilies. Rays of sunlight filter through the small windows, casting a warm glow over the simple but profound interior.

Running your fingertips along the smooth walls, you imagine the Virgin Mary’s gentle touch filling the space with a sense of peace and comfort. You can almost hear the soft rustle of her robes as she moved about the house, tending to her daily tasks with a quiet grace and unwavering faith.

As you sit in quiet contemplation, a wave of emotion washes over you. It’s a mixture of awe at the divine presence that once dwelled here, and a deep sense of connection to the spiritual legacy left behind. You feel a tug at your heartstrings, a sense of humility and gratitude for being in this sacred space.

In this moment, time seems to stand still as you reflect on the significance of your visit. The weight of history and faith presses down on you, filling you with a profound sense of humility and reverence.

As you finally depart the House of the Virgin Mary, you carry with you a sense of peace and clarity. The experience has left an indelible mark on your soul, a reminder of the power of faith and the enduring presence of divine love in our lives.

The House of the Virgin Mary in Selçuk does not offer audio descriptive guides or have specific sensory-friendly hours. However, visitors with accessibility needs are encouraged to contact the site in advance to inquire about any available accommodations or assistance that may be provided during their visit.

Located on Bülbüldağı (Mount Koressos) near Ephesus in Selçuk, the House of the Virgin Mary is a sacred site both for Christians and Muslims. I had the chance to speak with a local artist, Deniz, who shared her thoughts on this special place.

Deniz explained how the House of the Virgin Mary is believed to be the final residence of Mother Mary, where she spent her last years under the care of Saint John. For Christians, it is a site of pilgrimage and prayer, while for Muslims, it holds significance as a place of respect and reverence for Mary, who is highly regarded in Islamic tradition as well.

Deniz shared her personal experience of visiting the House of the Virgin Mary, describing the serene atmosphere and sense of peace she felt there. She mentioned how the natural surroundings of Mount Koressos, with its pine trees and gentle breezes, added to the spiritual ambiance of the place.

As an artist, Deniz finds inspiration in the stories and legends surrounding the House of the Virgin Mary. She has created several paintings depicting Mary and Saint John in this tranquil setting, capturing the sense of devotion and tranquility that permeates the site.

Local writers in Selçuk also often draw inspiration from the House of the Virgin Mary, incorporating its mysteries and spiritual significance into their works. The legends and folklore surrounding this holy site have been passed down through generations, shaping the cultural identity of the region.

Overall, the House of the Virgin Mary is not just a historical site, but a place of deep spiritual meaning for many locals in Selçuk. It continues to hold a special place in the hearts of those who visit, offering a sense of connection to both the divine and the natural world.

### Directions and Transportation:

The House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi) is located on Mt. Koressos in the vicinity of Ephesus, close to the town of Selçuk in Turkey. Here are some transportation options to reach the site:

#### By Car:

- Visitors can drive to the site by following the signs to Ephesus and then continuing on to the House of the Virgin Mary. There is parking available for those arriving by car.

#### By Public Transportation:

- Bus: Public buses run between Selçuk and Ephesus, with a stop near the House of the Virgin Mary. Visitors can take a bus from Selçuk to reach the site.

- Taxi: Taxis are also available in Selçuk and can take visitors to the House of the Virgin Mary.

#### Accessibility:

- The site may not be easily accessible for individuals with mobility issues due to its location on a hill. Visitors with accessibility concerns may want to inquire about available assistance or tour options.

### Ticket Booking and Discounts:

- Tickets to the House of the Virgin Mary can be purchased at the entrance of the site.

- Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or large groups. Visitors are advised to inquire about any available discounts at the ticket counter.

### Local Amenities:

- Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available at the site for visitors.

- Dining Options: There may be snack stands or small cafes near the entrance of the House of the Virgin Mary. Visitors with dietary restrictions can inquire about available food options.

- Parking: Parking facilities are available for visitors arriving by car. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially during peak times.

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