House of the Virgin Mary
Aegean Region
The House of the Virgin Mary is a modest Catholic shrine located on Mount Koressos near Ephesus, Turkey. Discovered in the 19th century following visions reported by Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich, the site is believed to be where Mary, mother of Jesus, lived her final days after being brought by Saint John. The chapel features preserved stones dating back to the Apostolic Age and contains a main room with an altar and a large statue of the Virgin Mary. A smaller adjacent room is traditionally regarded as Mary's sleeping quarters, featuring a spring believed to flow like a canal historically. The shrine is surrounded by gardens, a wishing wall where pilgrims leave intentions, and a nearby fountain reputed for healing and fertility. It has been visited and blessed by several popes, including Paul VI, John Paul II, and Benedict XVI, and holds significance for both Christian and Muslim visitors due to shared reverence for Mary. Annual ceremonies are held on August 15, drawing large crowds of pilgrims.
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Tip: The best time to visit is during the annual pilgrimage ceremonies on August 15, when special masses are held. Visitors are advised to book transportation in advance, as the shrine is located 7 km from Selçuk on Mount Koressos. Pilgrims often bring personal intentions to tie on the wishing wall. Modest attire and respectful behavior are recommended. No official ticket is required, but donations are welcomed. Early morning visits offer a peaceful atmosphere and cooler temperatures.
Interesting facts
- •The house was discovered following visions of Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich, beatified in 2004 by Pope John Paul II.
- •The shrine has been visited by Popes Paul VI, John Paul II, and Benedict XVI.
- •A wishing wall outside the shrine is used by pilgrims to tie personal intentions on paper or fabric.
- •The site is considered sacred by both Christians and Muslims, reflecting shared veneration of Mary.
- •A spring near the house is believed by some pilgrims to have healing and fertility properties.
History
The House of the Virgin Mary was identified in the 19th century based on the visions of Anne Catherine Emmerich, a German nun who described the location and details of the house near Ephesus.
Lazarist priests conducted research in 1891 that led to the discovery of the stone house on Mount Koressos.
The building's structure dates back to the Apostolic Age, consistent with early Christian architecture.
The site gained recognition as a pilgrimage destination in the 20th century, receiving papal visits and blessings.
It remains a place of ecumenical significance, bridging Christian and Muslim devotion to Mary.
Place Guide
Main ChapelApostolic Age
The central room of the shrine where an altar and a large statue of the Virgin Mary are prominently displayed. This space is used for prayer and reflection by pilgrims.
Mary's Sleeping RoomApostolic Age
A smaller adjacent room traditionally believed to be where Mary slept. It features a spring that historically flowed like a canal, now represented by a drinking fountain outside the shrine.
Wishing Wall
An outdoor wall where pilgrims tie their personal intentions on paper or fabric as part of devotional practice.
Baptismal PoolEarly Christian Period
A keyhole-shaped baptismal pool on the way to the shrine, believed to have been used by early Christians living in seclusion to escape Roman persecution.
Contact
Phone: 0545 455 86 10
