House of the Virgin Mary

A sacred hillside destination

The House of the Virgin Mary, or Meryem Ana Evi, is a pilgrimage shrine on Bulbul Mountain near Ephesus and Selcuk. A small stone chapel stands among trees on the mountainside.

History and tradition

According to one Christian tradition, the Apostle John brought Mary to the Ephesus region after the crucifixion of Jesus. The precise location of her final years is not established by conclusive historical evidence. The present shrine became known internationally after nineteenth-century investigations inspired by the reported visions of Anne Catherine Emmerich.

Religious significance

Christians visit the shrine for prayer and reflection. Mary, known as Maryam in Islam, is also honored by Muslim visitors. Popes Paul VI, John Paul II and Benedict XVI visited the site in 1967, 1979 and 2006 respectively.

What visitors see

The restored stone chapel has a quiet interior. Nearby are devotional water fountains and a wall where some pilgrims leave written wishes or prayers. Visitors should respect photography rules and the calm religious atmosphere.

Where it is

The site is approximately 9 kilometers from central Selcuk, in the hills beyond the upper Ephesus entrance. The road is paved but winding, and travel time is typically around 15-20 minutes from Selcuk.

Arriving by car or taxi

Follow the signs for Meryem Ana Evi from the Ephesus area. Taxis from Selcuk can be arranged for a return trip; ask about waiting time and total fare before leaving. Parking arrangements may include a fee.

Public transportation and walking

Ordinary local minibuses do not generally travel all the way to the shrine entrance. Most independent visitors reach it by taxi, car or organized tour. Hiking uphill on the road is demanding, particularly in the summer.

Combine with Ephesus

A popular itinerary is the shrine followed by the Upper Gate of Ephesus and a downhill walk through the ruins. Tour programs vary, so check the included attractions before booking.

Stay in Selcuk

Ephesus Palace provides a welcoming base for visitors interested in Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary and other regional monuments.