Ancient Ephesus & the Virgin Mary's House
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Port
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$110
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4 hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Begin your tour with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary where Jesus' mother is said to have lived the last years of her life. The site is a Catholic shrine and was visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979, and Pope Benedict XVI in 2006.
The Great Theatre, which dates to the Hellenistic period, is located at the site of Ephesus. In the 1st century AD, the Romans reconstructed and expanded the theatre to a seating capacity of 25,000. This is also where St Paul preached to the Ephesians. The Great Theatre has excellent acoustics, and it's still used for performances today.
The Marble Road, which runs between the theatre and the Celsus Library, is part of a sacred walkway that leads you to the Celsus Library and Hadrian's Temple. The temple was dedicated in AD 118 to Hadrian, Artemis, and the people of Ephesus. This impressive Corinthian-style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch.
Return to Kusadasi to enjoy the traditional Turkish experience of sipping apple tea while watching a myriad of colors unfold before you during an optional carpet demonstration. Those interested in purchasing a carpet can do so with confidence. Those not wishing to stay can walk directly back to the ship or remain in town and browse in the shops.
Please note: Although this tour is designed not to involve uphill walking, extensive walking is required at Ephesus. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Expect dense crowding and congestion at the sites. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, inclines, gravel, grass, and steps. Wear comfortable, non-skid walking shoes. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.