Seven Churches of Revelation: A Journey of Wonder
The Seven Churches of Revelation, also known as The Seven Churches of the Apocalypse and The Seven Churches of Asia (referring to the Roman province of Asia, not the entire continent), are seven major churches of Early Christianity, as mentioned in the New Testament Book of Revelation. In Revelation, on the Greek island of Patmos, Jesus Christ instructs his servant John of Patmos to: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, and to Smyrna, and to Pergamos, and to Thyatira, and to Sardis, and to Philadelphia, and to Laodicea.
“Churches” in this context refers to the community or local congregations of Christians living in each city, and not merely to the building or buildings in which they gathered for worship.
The seven churches are located in:
Duration: 6 Days 5 Nights
Day 1: Arrive in Izmir via Istanbul
- Overnight stay in Izmir.
Day 2: Izmir (Smyrna) and Pergamum
- Izmir, home to the Church of St. Polycarp, a revered martyr of the early Church, historical Agora, the landmark Clock Tower, and a bustling seaside promenade brimming with life.
- Bus trip to Pergamum (Pergamon). Discover its towering Acropolis, the healing sanctuary of Asclepion, and the enigmatic Red Basilica. Journey through time amidst the ruins of this influential ancient city.
- Overnight stay in Izmir.
Day 3: Visit three of the Seven Churches: Thyatira, Philadelphia and Sardes
- Bus trip to Thyatira, (modern-day Akhisar). Explore historical sites and immerse yourself in the city’s connection to early Christianity.
- Bus trip to Philadelphia and Sardes. Explore ancient ruins and gain insights into these early Christian communities mentioned in the Bible.
- Check in at a hotel in Pamukkale, Turkey’s “Cotton Castle.”
- Overnight stay in Pamukkale
Day 4: Pamukkale (Hierapolis), Laodicea, and Colossea
- Pamukkale. Explore cascading white travertine terraces, soak in mineral-rich thermal pools, and discover the ruins of the ancient spa city of Hierapolis – a captivating blend of natural wonder and history.
- Visit Laodicea (one of the Seven Churches) and Colossae (where St. Paul preached). Two ancient cities steeped in New Testament history. Experience sites that illuminate early Christian struggles and triumphs.
- Bus trip to Kusadasi
- Overnight stay in Kusadasi.
Day 5: Efes (Ephesus)
- Ephesus. Walk the marble streets of Ephesus, where St. Paul preached and the legacy of the early Church echoes amongst the timeless ruins.
- Discover the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred site believed to be Mary’s final dwelling place. Experience the tranquility of this revered sanctuary nestled amidst the hills near Ephesus, a place of pilgrimage and reflection.
- Explore the Basilica of St. John, believed to be built over the tomb of the Apostle John. Witness the remains of this once-grand Byzantine church and its enduring significance as a site of Christian pilgrimage near Ephesus.
- Overnight stay in Kusadasi or Selcuk.
Day 6: Enjoying Kusadasi all day
- Optional activities: Boat tour to Greek Islands, sunbathing and swimming, watersports, scuba diving, ancient sites of Priene, Miletus, Didyma, bazaars, Turkish baths (hamam), Dilek National Park.
- Overnight stay in Kusadasi or Selcuk.
Day 7:
- Flight back to the U.S.
WHAT IS INCLUDED:
- All domestic flights in Turkey
- 4-5 star Hotels
- All meals (Breakfast + Lunch + Dinner)
- All parking fees and local taxes
- Entrance fees to the sites and places mentioned in the itinerary
- Luxury and A/C, non-smoking transportation on transfers and daily tours
- English-speaking guide
WHAT IS EXCLUDED:
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance (required)
- Extras at hotels and airports
- Tips to Guide and Driver
NOTES:
- This tour is for Groups only
- The cost of the tour depends on the size of the group.
- Tour itinerary and sites can be modified depending on your preferences.
- FaithTourstoTurkey reserves the right to modify the tour itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances, such as heavy traffic, weather, and safety, etc.
