Basilica of St John

Introduction

The Basilica of St. John sits on Ayasuluk Hill in Selcuk. It is one of the most important Byzantine sites in the region and is traditionally associated with the burial of St. John the Apostle.

History of the basilica

An earlier church existed at the site before Emperor Justinian I sponsored a much larger basilica in the sixth century. The religious complex included multiple domes and courtyards and became a significant pilgrimage location. Centuries of earthquakes, erosion and changing settlement patterns left the ruins visible today.

What to see

Visitors can observe the traditional tomb area, reconstructed columns, walls, baptistery remains and the foundations of the large cruciform church. The location also provides views over the surrounding town.

Where it is

The basilica lies below Ayasuluk Castle and near Isa Bey Mosque. From Ephesus Palace the distance is approximately 1.5 kilometers, around 20 minutes on foot, depending on the route.

Getting there

Walk or take a taxi from central Selcuk. Travelers from Ephesus can drive to the Ayasuluk Hill area. Connections from Izmir and Kusadasi first reach Selcuk.

Visiting tips

Allow 45-60 minutes, wear shoes for uneven stone surfaces and bring water in the warmer months. Current admission and access restrictions should be checked before visiting.

Stay nearby

Ephesus Palace in Selcuk is a comfortable base for combining the basilica with Ayasuluk Castle, Isa Bey Mosque and the Temple of Artemis.