Spanish Guided: Ancient Ephesus & the Virgin Mary's House
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Port
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$99.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
A Spanish-speaking guide leads this tour (or a guide with a Spanish interpreter). A limited number of Spanish guides and interpreters are available in this port; book early to avoid disappointment. This is not a bilingual tour; please see Ancient Ephesus & the Virgin Mary’s House for the same tour guided in English.
Begin your tour with a visit to the house where Jesus’ mother is said to have lived the last years of her life. The site, called the Virgin Mary’s House, has been officially declared a Catholic shrine and was visited by Pope Paul VI in 1967, Pope John Paul II in 1979, and Pope Benedict XVI in 2006.
In Ephesus, visit the Great Theatre, which dates to the Hellenistic period. In the 1st century AD, the theatre was reconstructed and expanded by the Romans to a seating capacity of 25,000. This is also the place where St Paul preached to the Ephesians. It is still used for performances today, and the acoustics are excellent.
The Marble Road, which runs between the theatre and the Celsus Library, is part of a sacred walkway that leads you to the Celsus Library and Hadrian’s Temple. The temple was dedicated in AD 118 to Hadrian, Artemis and the people of Ephesus. This impressive Corinthian-style temple has beautiful reliefs on the porch, and the Ephesians believed that the Medusa head on the porch would protect the city from its enemies.
Return to Kusadasi to enjoy the traditional Turkish experience of sipping apple tea while watching a myriad of colors unfold before your eyes during an optional carpet demonstration. Those interested in purchasing a carpet can do so with confidence. Those who prefer not to view the carpet demonstration can stay in town to shop or explore independently or make their own way back to the ship on foot.
Notes:
Although this tour is designed not to involve uphill walking, extensive walking is required. Terrain includes uneven and cobblestone surfaces, inclines, and many steps. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Please realistically assess your physical fitness and ability prior to booking. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Expect dense crowding and congestion at each site. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Bring insect repellent in July and August. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.