
Basilica of St. John
Explore the monumental ruins of the 6th-century Basilica of St. John, believed to be the burial site of the Apostle John.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Basilica of St. John
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the monumental ruins of the 6th-century Basilica of St. John, believed to be the burial site of the Apostle John.
"The scale of the basilica is breathtaking, and the atmosphere feels peaceful and spiritual."

Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ancient stones. :athletic_shoe: Essential for exploring the ruins comfortably.
Bring Water & Sun Protection
It gets hot and there's limited shade. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun. :droplet: :sunwithface:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Basilica Ruins
Main archaeological site
Explore the vast footprint of Justinian's grand basilica, imagining its former glory.

St. John's Tomb
Central area of the basilica
Visit the believed burial site of the Apostle John, a place of pilgrimage and reflection.

Views of Ayasuluk Castle & Isa Bey Mosque
Elevated points within the site
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding historical landscape, including nearby landmarks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to St. John's Basilica
Understanding the Site's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ancient stones. :athletic_shoe: Essential for exploring the ruins comfortably.
Bring Water & Sun Protection
It gets hot and there's limited shade. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Consider a Guide
Enhance your understanding of the history and discoveries. Guides can point out details you might miss. :scroll:
Check Entry Fees
There's an entry fee, often payable in Euros or Turkish Lira. :euro: :moneybag:
A short guide to visiting Ephesus from Izmir
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ancient stones. :athletic_shoe: Essential for exploring the ruins comfortably.
Bring Water & Sun Protection
It gets hot and there's limited shade. Stay hydrated and protected from the sun. :droplet: :sunwithface:
Consider a Guide
Enhance your understanding of the history and discoveries. Guides can point out details you might miss. :scroll:
Check Entry Fees
There's an entry fee, often payable in Euros or Turkish Lira. :euro: :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the historical significance and scale of the Basilica of St. John's ruins, often finding the site peaceful and spiritual. The panoramic views of Selçuk and nearby landmarks are a notable highlight. Some visitors note that while much is uncovered, there's still ongoing discovery, adding to the site's intrigue.
"This was an amazing site! Our guide shared a lot about the history of discovery And showed us some tile flooring that was just uncovered in the last 18 months. A lot of the church has been uncovered but there is still more to find. You can see the one pillar that remains of the temple of Artemis from the tree line before you get to the tomb of St. John. This site has been approved as a holy place by the Pope. Historically it is of interest as well. From the tree line you can see a mosque and you may also be able to hear chanting."
April Williams
"The Basilica of St. John (Aziz Yohannes Bazilikası) in Selçuk is an impressive historical site. Built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, it is believed to be the burial place of St. John. Although only ruins remain today, the scale of the basilica is breathtaking, and the atmosphere feels peaceful and spiritual. From the site, you can also enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding area, including the Isa Bey Mosque and the Ayasuluk Castle. A must-see for history and culture lovers visiting Ephesus."
Ulaş Gökçe
"There were more to see than what I expected. Some areas were shady. Entry fee 6 euro. You can pay in TL."
HN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Basilica of St. John is located in Selçuk, very close to the ancient city of Ephesus. If you're visiting Ephesus, you can easily combine the two. Many tours include both sites. If traveling independently, taxis are readily available from Selçuk town center or Ephesus. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus schedules.
While Selçuk is accessible by train and bus, reaching the Basilica of St. John directly from the train station might require a short taxi ride or a walk. It's often more convenient to visit as part of a guided tour or by hiring a taxi for the day if you're exploring the wider area.
Selçuk is well-connected by train from Izmir and other major cities. Buses are also a common option. Many visitors arrive from Izmir's Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), which is about an hour's drive away. Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the region.
Yes, it's possible to walk from the ancient city of Ephesus to the Basilica of St. John, but it's a considerable distance (around 2-3 km) and can be quite hot. Most visitors opt for a short taxi ride or include it in a tour that provides transportation.
Yes, there are usually parking areas available near the Basilica of St. John, especially for tour buses and private vehicles. If you're driving, follow the signs for the archaeological site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for the Basilica of St. John is typically around 6 Euros, but prices can change. You can usually pay in Turkish Lira as well. It's always a good idea to check the latest prices before your visit.
Generally, you do not need to book tickets in advance for the Basilica of St. John. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. However, if you are part of a large group tour, your tickets might be included.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but the Basilica of St. John is typically open from morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to check the most current hours online or upon arrival, especially during religious holidays.
Due to the nature of the ruins, accessibility can be challenging. Some areas may have uneven terrain and steps. It's best to inquire directly about specific accessibility options if needed.
Yes, you can visit on religious holidays, but it might be more crowded. Special services or events may also be taking place, which could affect visitor access or experience.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the impressive ruins of the 6th-century basilica, including its foundational walls, columns, and the believed tomb of St. John. Information placards provide historical context. You'll also find stunning views of the surrounding area.
A typical visit to the Basilica of St. John takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows enough time to explore the ruins, read the information, and enjoy the views. If you have a guide, it might take a bit longer.
Absolutely! The Basilica of St. John offers a different historical and religious perspective. It's a significant site in its own right and complements the experience of visiting Ephesus.
While official guided tours might not always be present at the site itself, many tour operators that visit Ephesus also include the Basilica of St. John. Hiring a local guide in Selçuk is also an option to enhance your visit.
Built by Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, it's believed to be the burial place of St. John the Apostle. It was a major pilgrimage site in the Byzantine era and is considered a holy place by the Pope.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for elevated viewpoints that capture the scale of the ruins against the landscape. The central area around the tomb and the outer walls offer great perspectives. The views towards Ayasuluk Castle and the town are also picturesque.
Photography is generally allowed within the archaeological site of the Basilica of St. John. However, always be respectful of the historical nature of the site and any ongoing religious activities.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting, casting a warm glow on the ruins. Early mornings can also provide soft light and fewer crowds, making for more serene shots.
Drone usage is often restricted at historical and archaeological sites due to preservation concerns and local regulations. It's best to check with local authorities or site management before attempting to fly a drone.
The remaining columns, arches, and the sheer scale of the basilica's footprint are visually striking. The contrast between the ancient stone and the blue sky is also a popular photographic element.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pilgrims and Religious Visitors
History Buffs and Archaeology Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Construction of the Basilica
Originally, the basilica featured six domes and was adorned with intricate mosaics and marble. It served as a major pilgrimage destination for centuries. However, like many ancient structures, it suffered damage over time due to earthquakes and invasions. By the 15th century, after the Ottoman conquest, the basilica had largely fallen into ruin. Archaeological excavations in the 20th century began to uncover its impressive scale and architectural details, revealing the grandeur of Justinian's vision.
St. John the Apostle's Connection to Ephesus
His tomb became a sacred site, attracting pilgrims from across the Roman Empire and beyond. The construction of the basilica by Justinian was a testament to the enduring veneration of St. John. The site continues to hold religious importance for many, with the ruins serving as a tangible connection to the early days of Christianity and the lives of its key figures.
Exploring the Ruins: What to Expect
Look out for the remnants of the original marble columns and decorative elements that hint at the basilica's former splendor. The area around the believed tomb of St. John is a focal point for many visitors. From various points within the ruins, you'll also be treated to panoramic views of Selçuk, including the Ayasuluk Castle and the Isa Bey Mosque, offering a beautiful juxtaposition of different historical eras.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit