EphesusHouse of the Virgin Mary
The House of the Virgin Mary (Meryemana Evi) is a revered pilgrimage site located on Mount Koressos (Bülbül Dağı) near the ancient city of Ephesus in Turkey. Believed to be the final home of the Virgin Mary, this modest stone chapel dates back to the 6th or 7th century and was rediscovered in the 19th century based on the visions of German nun Anne Catherine Emmerich. Recognized by the Vatican and visited by multiple popes, the site draws hundreds of thousands of Christians and Muslims alike each year. Visitors can explore the restored chapel, drink from the sacred spring, and tie prayer wishes to the wishing wall. Plan to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful, forested setting.
Perched on a wooded hillside 7 kilometers from the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary (Meryemana Evi) is one of Turkey’s most spiritually significant destinations. According to Christian tradition, the Apostle John brought the Virgin Mary to Ephesus after the crucifixion of Jesus, where she spent her final years in a small stone dwelling on Mount Koressos. Today, the beautifully restored chapel stands as a sacred pilgrimage site that attracts visitors of all faiths from around the world.
History & Discovery
The story of this remarkable site begins with Anne Catherine Emmerich, a bedridden German nun who experienced vivid visions of the Virgin Mary’s last home in the early 19th century. Though she never traveled to Turkey, her detailed descriptions—published posthumously in 1852—led Lazarist priests to discover the ruins in 1891. Excavations revealed foundations dating to the 1st century, lending credibility to the tradition. The site received papal recognition when Pope Paul VI visited in 1967, followed by Pope John Paul II in 1979, and Pope Benedict XVI in 2006, cementing its status as one of Christendom’s most important Marian shrines.
What to See & Do
The centerpiece of the site is the restored stone chapel, a humble single-room structure where visitors can light candles, pray, and attend mass—held daily at various times. The atmosphere inside is deeply contemplative, with a small altar and a blackened statue of the Virgin Mary. Outside the chapel, a sacred spring feeds three fountains whose waters are believed to have healing properties for love, health, and fertility.
One of the most popular traditions is the wishing wall, where pilgrims and visitors tie strips of cloth, paper, or tissue to a wall as they make their wishes or prayers. The sight of thousands of colorful prayer ties fluttering in the breeze is unforgettable. The surrounding forest of pine and oak trees provides a tranquil walking area, making it a serene escape from the bustling Ephesus ruins below.
Visitor Tips & Practical Information
The House of the Virgin Mary is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (extended to 7:00 PM during summer months). As of 2026, the entrance fee is approximately €8 per person, though the site is often included in combined Ephesus-area tickets. Modest dress is required—shoulders and knees should be covered, as this is an active place of worship. Photography is permitted in the outdoor areas but restricted inside the chapel itself.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning (before 9:00 AM) or late in the afternoon to avoid the large tour groups that arrive midday. The peaceful atmosphere at dawn, with birdsong echoing through the forested hills, is an experience you won’t forget.
The site is best visited as part of a full-day Ephesus excursion. Explore the House of the Virgin Mary along with Ephesus and other Aegean highlights on our 7-Day Best of Turkey: Istanbul, Cappadocia & Ephesus tour (from €1,428), or combine it with Pamukkale and Cappadocia on our 4-Day Ephesus, Pamukkale and Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul by Plane & Bus (from €728). For a private experience departing from Pamukkale, consider our Full Day Private Ephesus Tour from Pamukkale (from €350).
Nearby Attractions
The House of the Virgin Mary is just a short drive from the spectacular ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Mediterranean. After your visit, consider continuing your Turkey journey to the stunning thermal terraces of Pamukkale Travertines, another UNESCO-worthy natural wonder located a few hours inland. Both sites together offer an unforgettable combination of spiritual heritage and natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the House of the Virgin Mary worth visiting?
Absolutely. Whether you are a devout pilgrim or a curious traveler, the House of the Virgin Mary offers a profoundly peaceful and moving experience. The combination of the ancient chapel, the sacred spring, and the beautiful forested hillside makes it one of the most atmospheric sites in the Ephesus region. It's easily combined with a visit to the Ephesus ruins for a full day of exploration.
How much does the House of the Virgin Mary cost to visit?
As of 2026, the entrance fee is approximately €8 per person. The ticket is sometimes included in combined Ephesus area passes. Guided tours from Selçuk, Kuşadası, or Izmir often include the entrance fee in the overall tour price, making them a convenient and cost-effective option.
How long should you spend at the House of the Virgin Mary?
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes and 1 hour at the site. This gives you enough time to enter the chapel, light a candle, drink from the sacred spring, and tie a wish to the wishing wall. If you want to attend a mass or simply sit in quiet reflection, allow a bit more time.
What should you wear to the House of the Virgin Mary?
Since the House of the Virgin Mary is an active place of worship, modest dress is required. Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees. Headscarves are not mandatory but are appreciated as a sign of respect. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as the site sits on a hillside with uneven stone pathways.