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Pope Leo XIV Departs Türkiye After a Historic Four-Day Visit
Updated: November 30, 2025 – Istanbul
Pope Leo XIV has concluded his four-day official and pastoral visit to Türkiye, departing from Istanbul Atatürk Airport after a program marked by interfaith encounters, meetings with state officials, and visits to significant early Christian heritage sites.
Day 1 – Ankara and Arrival in Istanbul
On November 27, Pope Leo XIV began his visit in Ankara with a solemn visit to Anıtkabir, the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
He later met with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at the Presidential Complex.
The Pope arrived in Istanbul in the evening to continue his scheduled programs.
Day 2 – Churches of Istanbul and Visit to Iznik
On Friday, November 28, the Pope visited Saint Esprit Cathedral and the Bomonti French Hospital and Charity House, meeting clergy and members of local Christian communities.
Later in the day, he traveled by helicopter to Iznik, where he visited the partially submerged ruins of the Basilica of Saint Neophytos.
Pope Leo XIV examined the archaeological site and led a brief prayer service.
The visit highlighted Iznik’s foundational role in Christian history, especially the legacy of the First Council of Nicaea held in 325 AD.
Day 3 – Sultanahmet Mosque and Interfaith Meetings
On the third day of his visit, the Pope toured the Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque).
He was welcomed by Türkiye’s Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Istanbul’s Mufti Dr. Emrullah Tuncel, and other officials.
Following this visit, he traveled to the Mor Efrem Syriac Orthodox Church in Yeşilköy for a meeting with representatives of various Christian communities.
He also held a private meeting with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I.
In the evening, Pope Leo XIV presided over a large public Mass at Volkswagen Arena with thousands in attendance.
Day 4 – Final Visits and Departure
On the final day, Pope Leo XIV met with Andrea Minguzzi, father of Mattia Ahmet Minguzzi, who was recently killed in Kadıköy.
He then visited the Patriarchal Church in Kumkapı, followed by a joint prayer with Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew at the Aya Yorgi Church in Balat.
After completing his final engagements, the Pope proceeded to Istanbul Atatürk Airport.
A formal farewell ceremony was held by Türkiye’s Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Istanbul Governor Davut Gül, Ambassador Ahmet Cemil Miroğlu, and other officials.
Pope Leo XIV boarded his flight and departed Türkiye for Lebanon.
A Visit of Historical and Spiritual Importance
The Pope’s journey underscored Türkiye’s rich Christian heritage, the enduring legacy of Iznik as a foundational site of the early Church, and ongoing dialogue between religious communities.
His visit has drawn international attention to sacred sites across the region, including Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary.
Pope Leo XIV Continues Historic Türkiye Visit with Key Stops Across Istanbul
House of Virgin Mary News – 29 November 2025
As part of his official visit to Türkiye at the invitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Pope Leo XIV continued his program in Istanbul today with a series of highly symbolic religious and interfaith meetings closely followed by our newsroom.
Visit to Sultanahmet (Blue Mosque)
This morning, Pope Leo XIV departed from Saint Esprit Cathedral in Şişli and arrived at the Sultanahmet Mosque, marking one of the most anticipated moments of his İstanbul schedule.
Our correspondents observed extensive security measures around the historic site. The Pope was welcomed by Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and senior officials before entering the mosque barefoot, in accordance with tradition.
Istanbul Mufti Emrullah Tuncel and mosque officials guided the Pope during the tour, offering insights into the mosque’s architectural and spiritual significance.
Officials noted that the Pope appeared moved when learning about the historical link between the term “mihrab” and the “room of Mary,” a detail that resonated strongly with him.
Ecumenical Meetings at Mor Efrem Syriac Orthodox Church
The Pope’s next stop was Mor Efrem Syriac Orthodox Church in Yeşilköy, where he met with leaders of local churches and representatives of Christian communities in Türkiye.
House of Virgin Mary News followed the event closely as discussions centered on unity, dialogue, and the shared heritage of Eastern Christian traditions.
Security was heightened around the church during the Pope’s presence, reflecting the significance of the gathering.
Joint Statement at the Ecumenical Patriarchate
Later in the afternoon, Pope Leo XIV arrived at the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Fener, greeted by church bells and clergy.
Here, the Pope and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomeos signed a joint declaration, reaffirming their mutual commitment to Christian unity.
The statement highlighted:
Support for the Joint International Commission for Theological Dialogue
Recognition of theological challenges still under discussion
A shared rejection of violence committed in the name of religion
A call to global leaders to take concrete steps toward ending war and conflict
The Pope reflected on Friday’s historic commemoration in Iznik, marking the 1700th Anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, describing the experience as “a profound encouragement for the pursuit of full unity among Christians.”
Thousands Attend Papal Mass at Volkswagen Arena
In the evening, our team covered the large public Mass held at Volkswagen Arena in Maslak — a landmark moment in the Pope’s Türkiye visit.
The arena was filled with approximately four thousand participants, including pilgrims, families, clergy, and international visitors.
Highlights witnessed by our correspondents:
A 200-member international choir performing hymns in several languages
Religious leaders from Syriac, Armenian, Greek Orthodox, and Latin Catholic churches sharing the platform
The Pope’s entrance accompanied by applause and chants of “Long live the Pope!”
Readings, prayers, and hymns projected in Turkish on giant screens
In his homily, Pope Leo XIV emphasized Christian unity, peace, and the spiritual symbolism of bridges — connecting continents, communities, and hearts.
He urged the faithful to “tear down walls of prejudice and distrust” and to “walk together as builders of peace.”
At the conclusion of the Mass, blessed bread was distributed to all attendees.
House of Virgin Mary News will continue to provide on-site updates throughout the day, including coverage of the Pope’s movements and the possibility of a visit to Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary.
Pope Leo Arrives in Türkiye — Official Visit Begins
House of Virgin Mary News | Ephesus
Published: 27 November 2025
Ankara — Pope Leo XIV arrived in Türkiye this morning, marking the beginning of his official state visit.
Departing Rome on ITA Airways’ specially designated AZ 4000 flight aboard an A320neo aircraft bearing the Papal insignia, the Pope landed at Ankara Esenboğa Airport at 09:40 (local time).
The Pope was accompanied by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary for Relations with States Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, and more than 70 accredited journalists traveling with the Papal delegation.
According to officials, this visit includes high-level meetings in Ankara followed by a program in Istanbul later today.
Road Closures Announced in Istanbul
The Istanbul Governor’s Office announced that, due to the Pope’s evening arrival, 11 major roads will be closed starting from 17:00. Alternative routes have been shared for public use as the city prepares security protocols for the Papal convoy.
Historical Footage Released by Ministry of Culture
To mark the beginning of Pope Leo XIV’s visit, Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism released archival footage from the first Papal visit in 1967, when Pope Paul VI visited Ankara and Istanbul.
The footage includes scenes of his arrival, meetings with religious leaders, and his globally noted visit to Hagia Sophia.
This archival release highlights the long history of Türkiye–Vatican relations, which later continued with visits from Pope John Paul II (1979), Pope Benedict XVI (2006), and Pope Francis (2014).
Pope Leo XIV to Visit Türkiye & Iznik — 1700th Anniversary of the Council of Nicaea
Updated: November 2025
The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Leo XIV will make his first official overseas visit to Türkiye from November 27 to 30, 2025, followed by Lebanon. The journey will include a special stop in Iznik (ancient Nicaea) to commemorate the 1700th Anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea, held in 325 AD — a defining event in Christian history.
While the Pope’s visit to Iznik and Istanbul has been confirmed by Vatican sources, it remains uncertain whether he will also travel south to Ephesus to visit the House of the Virgin Mary — a site of deep devotion for millions of Catholics. A potential papal visit would unite two of Christianity’s most sacred locations: the birthplace of the Nicene Creed and the home of the Mother of Christ.
Officials in Türkiye and local church leaders are already preparing for what is expected to be one of the most significant religious events in the country’s modern history. Iznik’s ancient basilicas and restored churches are being readied to welcome pilgrims, historians, and international press.
The visit is expected to strengthen interfaith dialogue and highlight Türkiye’s role as a bridge between East and West.
Sources:
– Vatican Press Office – “Pope Leo XIV to visit Turkey and Lebanon on first foreign trip.”
– Anadolu Agency – “Türkiye prepares Iznik Basilica for Pope Leo’s first overseas visit.”
– Reuters – “Pope Leo tells Turkish first lady he might visit Turkey in November.”
Kusadasi Cruise Season Booms in 2025: Visitor Numbers Up by 18%
Updated: November 2025
Kusadasi Port strengthens its leadership on Türkiye’s Aegean coast as cruise tourism rebounds with record-breaking arrivals in 2025.
Kusadasi, the vibrant port town on Türkiye’s western coast, has recorded a remarkable surge in cruise traffic during the first half of 2025. According to official figures, the port welcomed 227 cruise ships and more than 339,000 passengers in the first six months of the year — an impressive 18% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth positions Kusadasi as Türkiye’s leading cruise destination on the Aegean route.
Officials from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure reported that Türkiye is on track to host over 2 million cruise tourists by the end of 2025. Alongside Kusadasi, the ports of Istanbul and Bodrum also show significant growth, reflecting the country’s renewed maritime tourism momentum.
Many of these international visitors include Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary in their shore excursions, blending cultural exploration with spiritual experience. This connection continues to make Kusadasi a key gateway for faith-based tourism in Türkiye.
Sources:
Daily Sabah – “Turkish ports welcome 490 cruise ships in H1, up 18% annually.”
Anadolu Agency – “Türkiye to host over 2 million cruise tourists by end of 2025.”
Ephesus Hits Record Visitors in 2024 – 2.7 Million Pilgrims and Tourists
Updated: December 2024
Ephesus, one of Türkiye’s most iconic ancient cities, achieved a record-breaking milestone in 2024 with over 2.7 million visitors. The site, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage landmark, continues to attract pilgrims and travelers from around the world for its rich history and spiritual resonance.
Officials from Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism highlighted that the surge in visitors reflects the country’s strong post-pandemic tourism recovery. The House of the Virgin Mary, located just a few kilometers from the Ephesus ruins, remains one of the most visited faith destinations in the region.
Experts note that new restoration efforts and guided tours have made the experience more accessible, drawing both history enthusiasts and spiritual travelers alike.
Sources:
Daily Sabah – “Türkiye’s Ephesus hits record-breaking visitor numbers in 2024.”
Temple of Artemis Revived in Digital 3D Experience – Bringing Ancient Ephesus to Life
Updated: August 2023
One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, has been digitally reconstructed in a stunning new 3D project. The initiative, created by a team of Greek and Turkish archaeologists and digital artists, aims to give modern audiences a vivid sense of the temple’s original grandeur.
Visitors can now explore the temple virtually, witnessing how this sacred site looked nearly 2,500 years ago. The project combines archaeological accuracy with immersive design, serving as both an educational and cultural revival.
The digital reconstruction also strengthens Ephesus’ reputation as a global heritage hub, bridging ancient faith and modern technology.
Sources:
Greek City Times – “Temple of Artemis in Ephesus digitally revived to show Ancient Greek world.”
House of the Virgin Mary – The Place Where Wishes Come True
Updated: May 2023
Nestled on the peaceful slopes of Mount Koressos near Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary remains one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in Türkiye. Every year, thousands of visitors from all faiths come to light candles, leave handwritten wishes on the Wishing Wall, and collect holy water believed to bring healing and blessings.
Pilgrims describe the experience as deeply moving — a moment where silence, prayer, and nature merge in harmony. The shrine has long been recognized by the Vatican and is considered a sacred place of unity between Christians and Muslims alike.
Its timeless atmosphere and enduring faith traditions continue to inspire hope for peace and spiritual renewal.
Sources:
Hürriyet Daily News – “Virgin Mary’s House: The place where wishes come true.”
Learn more about the sacred history, miracles, and pilgrim traditions of the House of Virgin Mary in Ephesus, Türkiye — where visitors collect holy water, light candles, and leave wishes on the Wishing Wall.
Visitors who explore the Holy Water often also light a candle and leave a wish on the sacred wall. These timeless traditions — light, word, and water — reflect the enduring faith and cultural heritage of Meryem Ana Evi.
For more historical background, visit the official Wikipedia article about the House of the Virgin Mary .