ITINERARY

• **Ephesus Ancient City** Ephesus, located near Selçuk in Turkey, is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a thriving Greek and later Roman city, it was a major center for commerce, culture, and religion. Ephesus is home to remarkable landmarks such as the **Library of Celsus**, **Temple of Artemis** (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), the **Great Theatre**, and the **Temple of Hadrian**. The city offers a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient civilizations with its marble streets, intricate mosaics, and grand architectural remains. Ephesus also holds religious significance as it is believed to have been visited by the Virgin Mary and Saint John. A walk through this fascinating archaeological site takes you back thousands of years, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
• **House of Virgin Mary, Selçuk** The House of Virgin Mary, located near Selçuk, Turkey, is believed to be the final resting place of the Virgin Mary. According to Christian tradition, Mary was brought here by the Apostle John after the crucifixion of Jesus. The site is considered a place of pilgrimage and has both religious and historical significance. The small stone house, nestled on the slopes of Mount Koressos, was discovered in the 19th century, and its authenticity is widely accepted by both Christian and Muslim communities. Visitors can explore the house, the surrounding gardens, and a chapel, and many come to pray or light candles in honor of Mary. The House of Virgin Mary is also located near the ancient city of Ephesus, making it a popular stop for tourists in the area.
• **Temple of Artemis, Selçuk** The Temple of Artemis, located in Selçuk, Turkey, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built around 550 BCE in honor of the goddess Artemis, it was an enormous and grand structure, measuring 115 meters long and 55 meters wide. The temple was renowned for its impressive size and beautiful marble sculptures. Although it was destroyed and rebuilt several times, only a few remnants of the temple remain today, including one standing column. Despite this, the site still attracts visitors for its historical significance and its connection to one of the most famous ancient wonders. The temple was also a major religious and cultural center in ancient Ephesus.
• **İsa Bey Mosque, Selçuk** İsa Bey Mosque, located in Selçuk near Ephesus, is a striking example of 14th-century Seljuk architecture. Built in 1375 by the architect Ali bin Mushimish for İsa Bey of the Aydinid Dynasty, the mosque features an asymmetrical design with intricate stone and marble work. Its courtyard, decorated domes, and elegant calligraphy reflect the artistic and cultural achievements of the era. Though partially ruined, the mosque remains an active place of worship and a significant historical site. Visitors admire its blend of Byzantine and Islamic architectural styles, as well as its serene atmosphere. Situated near other landmarks like the Basilica of St. John and the Temple of Artemis, İsa Bey Mosque is a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
• **Şirince Village** Şirince is a charming village located in the Aegean region of Turkey, near Selçuk, famous for its well-preserved traditional Greek architecture and picturesque surroundings. Once home to a Greek population, the village has retained its quaint character with narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and beautiful wooden shutters. Şirince is also known for its vineyards and unique fruit wines, made from local fruits like peaches, mulberries, and cherries. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting at local wineries and explore the village’s peaceful atmosphere, which contrasts with the bustling nearby tourist attractions like Ephesus. The village’s scenic location on a hill provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular spot for photography and leisurely walks. Şirince offers a glimpse into traditional Turkish village life, with artisan shops, cozy cafes, and a relaxed pace of life that invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the beau.