House Of The Virgin Mary

The house of the Virgin Mary is definitely a place to visit when you are in Turkey. I always combine it with my trips to Ephesus as it is  close by. Most excursion shops will sell the Ephesus trip with the Virgin Mary’s house included or you can make your own way. Don’t try to walk to the Virgin Mary’s house from Ephesus as it is in the mountains and you might reach there 24 hours later!

The house is believed to be the last resting place of Mary and if you are a devout catholic then you will be delighted  to know that they also hold mass and regular services there.  Several of the popes from Rome have visited the house as well.

We drove to the virgin Mary’s house in a car, and there was no need to worry about parking spaces as there was plenty in among all the tour coaches that had parked up. From there it is easy to find your way around. First, you will come to the real house. We entered and there was a nun praying so out of respect maintained silence.

When you walk in, there are rows of candles to your left and right. You can light a candle and kneel to pray if you wish to. You come out of the house and then enter into the gardens. The gardens contain some mountain spring water and we were told  several stories about the spring water. The most popular story was that each tap resembled an aspect of life. One tap meant wealth would come your way, another tap meant health would come your way and the last one resembled fertility!

You will also see a wall where people have tied napkins or scarves. The idea behind this wall, is that you have to make a wish while tying your object. Finally is the baptism pool which you will see on your way out. The house of the Virgin Mary is nothing if you visit there after Ephesus. There is just no comparison however it is a quiet serene place and would be nice to say that you have been there and done it.

If you are catholic or Christian and looking for a church in a Muslim country, then the House of the virgin Mary on the Aegean Coast is a good place to start. Be aware though, that if you are attending the mass, to dress appropriately. They don’t take too kindly to tourists dressed in bikini shorts and tops.

Many thanks to my friend Pat and Lynne from Flickr for  the pictures.