The Shrine of the Virgin Mary

Mary may have spent the last days of her life here.  Indeed she may have come to the area with St. John, who spent several years in the area to spread Christianity.  Mary preferred this remote place rather than living in a crowded place.  Paul VI was the first pope to visit this site in the late 1960's. 

we were very fortunate to have visited in October.  There was not a line to enter the church.  In mid summer it may have taken hours to enter the church. 

The "Wall of Hope" is filled with notes.  There was an aura surrounding the area like none other.  We offered our prayers in silence by the Altar.  The church is approximately 9 miles up the hillside from Ephesus.

Di is about to enter

After our visit we were able to get a photo.

Cistern

All trees are white washed (lime) in this manor to prevent harm from insects.

A beautiful olive tree.

Lemon Plant and Cypress

Wall of Hope and Prayer

Next Stop --> Ephesus