Stories from the House of the Virgin Mary

Words by Dalene Heck / Photography by Pete Heck

High above the bustling ruins of Ephesus, tucked into the green slopes of Mount Koressos, sits one of Turkey’s most intriguing sites: the House of the Virgin Mary. It’s part pilgrimage, part history lesson, and part serene escape from the tourist shuffle below.

Whether you come with faith, curiosity, or just a good pair of walking shoes, this hillside sanctuary has a way of surprising you.

There is one significant reason why exploring this corner of the world excites me so.

This area is not only full of archaeological and architectural wonders, it also holds so many epic stories. Stories of significant events that continue to influence and shape civilization thousands of years later.

Visiting the House of the Virgin Mary in Turkey

We went to the House of the Virgin Mary near Ephesus, not on a devout pilgrimage as many do, but in the pursuit of that story. Here is a place deemed holy by the Catholic Church and also a shrine for Muslims. It is the reported place where Saint John took Mary to live out her days.

There is much dispute over her presence as no firm evidence exists to carry the claim. The house was actually only discovered in the 19th century when a German nun saw it in a series of visions; from those visions, she was able to give directions to its whereabouts and details of its construction. As it goes against the original belief that Mary’s Assumption was near Jerusalem and that there was no archaeological evidence to support it, the claim has not been officially accepted. Regardless, many believe it to be so – several Popes have visited, and pilgrims descend on it annually every 15th of August.

Pete and I arrived early and were the first ones on site. I was grateful for this, preferring to observe such places in peace, void of whispers and the usual jostling for space.

People have declared to feel a rush of emotions and a significant spiritual presence when visiting the house, perhaps offering additional credence to the claim of its famous guest.

The building that was said to be her house is now a small chapel and Catholic services are still held every Sunday. It is modest and void of much decoration, the walls are mostly bare and staggered bricks are exposed. We watched as a nun repeatedly fussed over the angle of the fresh flowers placed at the altar. A small statue of Mary sat between many colourful bouquets.

We each took a candle from the church and lit them in a large glass case just outside.

We said silent prayers for the important women in our life, and sat beside it for a few minutes, absorbed in pensive thought. While Pete took a few pictures I continued to sit, reflecting on the many people who had come here before us from all over the world. Those in pursuit of hope, maybe even salvation. I wondered what they found and if those who felt so moved by their visit carried that feeling home.

We moved onto the prayer wall just below, scanning and reading notes left behind by visitors on white scraps of fabric, paper, or napkins. We lingered only momentarily,  proceeding to the exit as a large tour group began to move into the space.

I cannot say I felt a life-changing rush of emotions. No tears or tingling. Instead, just the warmth of deep appreciation for a place so peaceful, filled with love and prayers from across the world, Christians and Muslims alike. A place where a respect of beliefs is acknowledged and upheld. Where prayers and wishes are probably very much the same.

And that is the final story that should be told, I believe. It is one of kinship and understanding, and people really aren’t so different after all.

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How to Visit the House of the Virgin Mary

How to get to the House of the Virgin Mary

The House of the Virgin Mary is located in the scenic hillside of Selcuk, Turkey. It is approximately five kilometres away from the ancient city of Ephesus and seven kilometres away from Selçuk. There is no public transportation to the Virgin Mary’s house, so it is recommended that you drive, take a tour (see below), or a find a taxi from Selcuk to visit the holy grounds.

Opening Hours

The House of the Virgin Mary is open to visitors each day of the week between 08:00 and 18:00.

Admission

The entrance fee to the House of Virgin Mary is 400 TL (as of 2024), and credit cards are accepted.

Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive early in the day to avoid bus crowds.
• Dress modestly (it is a religious site).
• Bring a small scarf or paper slip if you want to leave a wish.
• Combine your visit with Ephesus, the Basilica of St. John, and Selçuk Castle for a full day of history.

Things to Do at the House of the Virgin Mary

1. Visit the Chapel Inside

Step into the modest stone house, now a chapel, where candles flicker and the silence feels thicker than usual. It’s not large, but the intimacy makes it all the more powerful.

2. Light a Candle

Outside, rows of candles burn in a sheltered space. Many visitors light one as a gesture of hope, remembrance, or gratitude.

3. Drink (or Collect) Water from the Fountain

A natural spring flows beneath the sanctuary, and visitors often fill bottles from the taps. Locals believe the water has healing properties.

4. Tie a Wish at the Wall of Prayers

One of the most photographed spots is the wish wall, where visitors tie scraps of cloth or paper with written prayers. It’s chaotic, colourful, and strangely moving.

Things to Do Nearby

1. Tours to see Ephesus

There are several tours available for booking online, but it is highly recommended that you take this highly-rated tour, which combines a visit to Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary.

2. Climb to the Basilica of St. John

In Selçuk, explore the ruins of this 6th-century basilica said to be the burial site of John the Apostle. Even in partial ruin, it’s impressively atmospheric with sweeping views of the valley.

3. Snap a Photo at the Temple of Artemis

Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, only a single column remains—but standing there imagining its full grandeur is half the fun (and a rite of passage for history buffs).

4. Explore the Selçuk Castle

Perched on Ayasuluk Hill, this Byzantine fortress offers fantastic panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. Perfect for golden-hour photos.

5. Unwind at Şirince Village

A short drive away, this hillside village charms with cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses, and local fruit wines (peach, pomegranate, mulberry… take your pick). A great spot for lunch and a slower pace.

Where to Stay Near the House of the Virgin Mary

Ephesus is close to Selçuk, and just a short drive from the coastal resort town of Kuşadası. Whether you want boutique charm or all-inclusive luxury, you’ve got options.

Budget-Friendly

Hotel Nilya (Selçuk): Cozy, welcoming, and walking distance from the main sights. A charming option if you prefer simple and authentic.

Mid-Range

Cella Boutique Hotel (Selçuk): Stylish, modern touches with warm hospitality. Perfect if you want comfort without splurging.

Splurge-Worthy

Charisma De Luxe Hotel (Kuşadası): Sea views, infinity pools, and a resort feel. Ideal if you want to pair cultural sightseeing with a vacation vibe.

Final Thoughts

The House of the Virgin Mary isn’t flashy. There are no towering domes, glittering mosaics, or massive ruins here. What it offers instead is something rare: stillness.

Whether you come for faith, curiosity, or just to catch your breath from the chaos of sightseeing, this humble stone house has a quiet way of staying with you long after you’ve left the mountain.