House Of The Virgin Mary

The House of the Virgin Mary, located on Mount Koressos (Bülbül Mountain) in Selçuk, Izmir, just about 7 kilometers from the ancient city of Ephesus, holds significant importance for both Christianity and Islam. It is believed that after the death of Jesus, his mother, the Virgin Mary, lived in this house. Discovered in 1891 and declared a pilgrimage site by the Vatican, the House of the Virgin Mary serves not only as a religious center but also as a fascinating cultural and historical landmark.

History and Discovery of the House of the Virgin Mary

The discovery of the House of the Virgin Mary is rooted in the visions of Anna Katharina Emmerick, an 18th-century German nun. In her visions, Emmerick described the house of the Virgin Mary on Mount Koressos in great detail. Based on her descriptions, researchers discovered the structure in 1891. The house was in ruins when found, but it was later restored and began to be used as a church, eventually being declared a pilgrimage site by the Vatican. This sacred place, visited by three Popes—1967, 1979, and 2006—now welcomes thousands of tourists and pilgrims every year.

Meryem Ana Evi Entrance Fee 2024

As a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists, the entrance fees for the House of the Virgin Mary are updated periodically. The current entrance fees for 2024 are:

👉 Domestic Visitors: 100 TL

👉 Foreign Visitors: 200 TL

👉 Museum Card: Valid, granting free access to cardholders

Visiting Hours of the House of the Virgin Mary

The House of the Virgin Mary is open year-round with different visiting hours in summer and winter:

⏰ Summer Season: 08:00-19:00

⏰ Winter Season: 08:00-17:00

Visitors cannot enter outside these hours. Arriving early offers a quieter atmosphere, and daily Catholic masses, held each morning, are open for viewing by all attendees.

How to Get to the House of the Virgin Mary

Located around 75 kilometers from the center of Izmir, the House of the Virgin Mary is in the district of Selçuk. It is easily accessible, just 7 kilometers from Ephesus.

📍 By Car: From Izmir city center, take the D550 highway; the drive takes about an hour.

📍 Public Transport: Buses or taxis from Selçuk can take you to the site.

📍 Address: Bülbül Dağı, Selçuk, Izmir

Importance of the House of the Virgin Mary in Christianity and Islam

For Christians, the House of the Virgin Mary is a significant pilgrimage site recognized by the Catholic Church. Revered as the place where Mary lived and died, it has gained further importance with visits from notable figures like Pope Paul VI, Pope John Paul II, and Pope Benedict XVI. In Islam, Mary (known as Maryam) is also a respected figure, and Muslim visitors often visit this holy place. Thus, the House of the Virgin Mary stands as a symbol of respect and peace among people of different faiths.

Things to Do at the House of the Virgin Mary

This site appeals not only to those wishing to pray but also to tourists eager to explore a unique historical and cultural destination. Here’s what you can do:

🌸 Wishing Wall: Visitors write their wishes on small papers and attach them to the wishing wall—a tradition that attracts everyone who visits.

💧 Holy Water Spring: There is a spring considered holy at the House of the Virgin Mary. Visitors may drink from it or take some with them.

🕊️ Attend a Mass: Participate in the masses held throughout the year and experience the sacred atmosphere. Particularly during the summer, the masses see a large turnout of visitors.

🌳 Nature Walks: Take a walk around Mount Koressos and discover the natural beauty of the Aegean region.

Best Time to Visit the House of the Virgin Mary

Spring and summer are peak times to visit, with ideal weather and great conditions for hiking. The large masses held during the summer also attract many for religious tourism. Those seeking a quieter experience may find the winter months ideal.

This sacred site is a convergence of faith, history, and nature, offering a profound cultural richness and spiritual serenity. The House of the Virgin Mary is an unforgettable destination for any traveler visiting the Izmir and Selçuk regions.