Meet and greet at the hotel.

Your initial sightseeing will be the sacred city of Artemis, Ephesus, one of the leading Roman sites of the world. Being a notable cultural and commercial center, it was the most influential capital city of Asia Minor. The Temple of Artemis which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Celsus Library that was the third largest of its time and the grandest theater of this part of the world are tangible evidences of its significant glory. Apart from being one of the 7 churches of Revelation, its historical value is consolidated as the prominent missionary center of St. Paul and St. John.

Following lunch at a local restaurant, proceed to the Virgin Mary's House in which she is believed to have spent her final days. It is a small church located on the top of the Bulbul Mountain in a tranquil atmosphere hidden in the green. In addition to being a pilgrimage place for Christians, the shrine is highly esteemed and visited by Muslims as well.

End your tour with the Basilica of St. John where the evangelist John is assumed to be buried. The splendid basilica was built in the 6^th century by Justinian who also ordered the construction of the Church of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. It was the second largest church of Anatolia when it was actively used. Explore the impressive ruins that are in a good state of preservation and the sacred grave of St. John which was located under the central dome. Pilgrims believe the dust from his grave to have magical and curative properties.

Return to the hotel.