Virgin Marys House

Virgin Mary’s House (Meryem Ana Evi) – A Sacred Pilgrimage Site

Location: Bulbul Mountain, near Ephesus, Turkey
Significance: Believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary
Religious Importance: Christian & Muslim pilgrimage site
Declared an official Catholic pilgrimage site

History & Discovery

• Ancient Origins: The foundation of the house dates back to the 1st century AD.
• Christian Tradition: The belief that St. John brought Mary to Ephesus after Jesus’ crucifixion.
• Visions of Anne Catherine Emmerich (1774-1824): A German nun, who never visited Ephesus, described a small stone house on a hill where the Virgin Mary spent her final years.
• Rediscovery in 1881: A French priest found the house based on Emmerich’s descriptions.
• Catholic Recognition: Officially blessed by Pope Paul VI in 1967 & visited by Pope John Paul II & Pope Benedict XVI.

What to See at Virgin Mary’s House

• The Chapel: A restored Byzantine-era stone house, now a place of prayer & reflection.
• The Holy Spring: A small sacred water source that many believe has healing properties.
• The Wishing Wall: A place where visitors tie written prayers & wishes on white fabric.
• Annual Pilgrimage (August 15th): Celebration of the Assumption of Mary with prayers & Mass.

Importance in Islam

Muslims also revere Mary (Meryem) as the mother of Prophet Isa (Jesus). They believe she visited this site & drank from the sacred spring. It is a place of respect & pilgrimage for people of both faiths.

How to Visit Virgin Mary’s House

By Car: 15 minutes from Ephesus, 10 km from Selcuk
By Foot: Possible hike from Ephesus (around 1 hour uphill)
By Tour: Many guided tours from Kusadasi, Izmir & Selcuk

Why Visit?

• One of the most sacred Christian pilgrimage sites
• A peaceful, spiritual place with breathtaking views
• Experience the interfaith connection between Christianity & Islam
• Visit the nearby ancient city of Ephesus

A must-see for spiritual travelers, history lovers & those seeking a peaceful retreat!