A discovery based on a vision
The House of the Virgin Mary was discovered in 1881 based on the visions of German nun Anne Catherine Emmerich. In Catholic tradition, it is believed that the Virgin Mary spent her final years in this structure.
No official confirmation, yet still significant
The Catholic Church has not issued an official confirmation that the structure is where the Virgin Mary lived. Nonetheless, the site has become a significant pilgrimage destination over the years.
Both Christian and Muslim visitors
The House of the Virgin Mary sees a particularly large influx of visitors on 15 August. A notable feature of the site is that it welcomes both Christian and Muslim visitors, making it a multi-faith destination.
A stop on an Ephesus visit
The House of the Virgin Mary sits on the slope of Bülbül Mountain in Selçuk, close to the Ancient City of Ephesus. This proximity makes it practical for visitors to tour both stops on the same day.