About House of Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana Evi)
The House of Virgin Mary (Turkish: Meryem Ana Evi) is a sacred pilgrimage site on the slopes of Mount Koressos, about 7 kilometers from Ephesus in Izmir, Turkey. Surrounded by pine and olive trees, it has welcomed visitors for more than a century and remains one of the most meaningful spiritual destinations in the country.
History and Discovery
According to Christian tradition, this is the place where the Virgin Mary spent her final years under the care of St. John the Apostle. The modest chapel that stands today was built of stone in a cruciform plan with a domed roof. Archaeological studies suggest the foundations date back to the 1st century AD, while the visible structure is from the 7th century.
The house was rediscovered in the 19th century following the visions of Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich, a German nun who described the location in detail. In 1951, the dwelling was restored, preserving its original stone masonry and modest interior.
A Place of Shared Devotion
The House of Virgin Mary is unique because it is venerated by both Christians and Muslims. For Christians, it is the home where Mary lived and died; for Muslims, it is respected as the dwelling of Meryem Ana, the mother of Prophet Jesus (Isa). A side prayer room is often used by Muslim visitors, symbolizing shared reverence.
In 1961, Pope John XXIII officially recognized the site as a Catholic pilgrimage destination. Since then, popes including Paul VI, John Paul II, and Benedict XVI have all prayed here, strengthening its global significance.
Pilgrimage Traditions
Pilgrims often light candles, drink from the holy spring water, and leave written prayers on the Wishing Wall. These traditions reflect hope, faith, and healing. Visitors frequently take bottles of spring water home, considering it blessed.
Surroundings and Attractions
The house lies close to major historical landmarks:
Ephesus Ancient City – UNESCO World Heritage Site with marble streets, the Library of Celsus, and the grand Theater.
Basilica of St. John – built in the 6th century, believed to be the burial place of the Apostle John.
Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Cave of the Seven Sleepers – important for both Christian and Islamic tradition.
Nearby, the town of Selcuk offers bazaars, museums, and traditional houses, while Kusadasi serves as a gateway for international cruise travelers.
Preservation and Cultural Impact
The stone structure has been carefully protected by Turkish authorities and the Catholic Church to maintain its authenticity. Restoration efforts preserved the ancient walls and arched doorways while keeping the interior simple. Documentaries and historical studies continue to highlight its cultural and spiritual value.
Why Visit the House of Virgin Mary?
Today, the site is more than an archaeological landmark—it is a living place of peace, prayer, and cultural meeting. Whether visitors come as pilgrims, history enthusiasts, or travelers exploring the Aegean, the House of Virgin Mary in Ephesus offers a rare blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty.
House of Virgin Mary has been online since 2009, operated by Ephesus LLC (USA). For more than 15 years, our mission has been to keep alive the sacred memory of Ephesus and the Virgin Mary through prayers, wishes, and tours, offering visitors a place of faith, peace, and cultural connection. Beyond spirituality, our platform also provides shopping opportunities with authentic hand crafted items and a wide variety of unique products inspired by history and tradition, bringing this heritage closer to people worldwide.