Seven Churches of Revelation Tour 6 Day

Tour Plan

Day 1: Welcome to Ä°zmir, visit to St. Polycarp Church

We welcome you at Izmir (ADB) Airport early morning.Transfer to the hotel. Have breakfast and rest for a while. Then, visit the oldest Church in Smyrna, St. Polycarp Church which symbolized the community of the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse. Saint Polycarp, was a 2nd-century Christian bishop and martyr. He is recognized as one of the Apostolic Fathers and a significant figure in early Christian history. Polycarp was born around AD 69 and was a disciple of the Apostle John and he served as the bishop of Smyrna (modern-day Ä°zmir in Turkey) He is also notable for his interactions with other early Christian leaders, such as Ignatius of Antioch. Overnight at a 4 star hotel in Izmir

Day 2 : Pergamum &Thyatira

Today, our journey begins in Izmir as we head to Pergamum, now called Bergama, to explore one of the Seven Churches. In Pergamum we'll ascend to the acropolis boasting remarkable structures like the Altar of Zeus, the Temple of Trajan, and the Library of Pergamon, known for pioneering parchment. We'll also marvel at the ancient theater, renowned for its steep incline, and visit the healing center dedicated to Asclepius. Later, we'll proceed to the Red Basilica, originally honoring Egyptian gods but transformed into a basilica during the early Christian era. Then, we will drive from Pergamum to Thyatira, now called Akhisar to explore one of the Seven Churches.Thyatira, located on an important Roman road between Pergamum and Sardis, was a commercial center as well as an important military post. Famous for its many trade guilds (wool & linen, purple dyers, makers of bronze and leather), Thyatira received the longest and central letter from Jesus Christ. Visit the remains of a Basilica and the Colonnaded Street and other architectural fragments. Overnight at a 4 star hotel in Ä°zmir

Day 3 : Smyrna, Sardis and Philadelphia

Today, our exploration begins with Smyrna, renowned for its ancient and prosperous port. Smyrna, one of the primary cities in the Roman province of Asia, competed with Pergamum and Ephesus. Noteworthy remnants include the Temple of Athena, the Agora, Aqueducts, and Cistern. Moreover, the site features extensive examples of ship and sailor graffiti, along with instances of Isopsephism of desire, where the sum of each number unveils a name or idea. It's important to note that the letters to Smyrna and Philadelphia carry no blame for the churches.

Departing Smyrna, our journey proceeds to Sardis, now known as Sart. Once the capital of Lydia, it gained prominence in the Persian Empire around 546 BCE. As a crucial trade hub on the Persian Royal Road, Sardis contributed to the production of carpets and woolen goods and played a significant role in the development of modern currency. Discover the Gymnasium, Roman Synagogue, Byzantine Shops, 4th-century Church, and Temple of Artemis to explore the city's captivating history. Our ultimate stop today is the Church of Philadelphia, now known as modern AlaÅŸehir. Philadelphia stands as the most recently established city among the Seven Churches and is also the smallest in terms of population. Explore the remains of St. John's Basilica, constructed with bricks. The Church of Philadelphia remains faithful to Jesus Christ. Overnight at a 4 star hotel in Pamukkale

Day 4: Laodicea and Hierapolis (Pamukkale)

Explore the Church of Laodicea, the singular church without a positive mention in the Book of Revelation. Laodicea's financial strength enabled it to independently rebuild the city after an earthquake without imperial aid a 60 AD. Wander through Syrian Street, visit the Laodicean Church, State Agora, and the remains of the Basilica, along with two ancient theaters and ancient stone water pipes. Keep an eye out for a carved Cross on a Menorah on a column. Our final destination for the day is the neighboring Hierapolis, graced with rejuvenating hot mineral springs and boasting some of the finest-preserved Roman ruins in Asia Minor. Unwind in the thermal pools and refresh yourself in the calcium-rich mineral springs near Pamukkale Travertines and Cleopatra Antique Pools. Afterwards, delve into the historical wonders of Hierapolis, exploring its ancient city, main streets, ancient gates, the well-preserved ancient theatre, the Temple of Apollo, Ploutonion, and the Necropolis. Our visit will also include the Martyrium of the Apostle Philip, commemorating the site where he faced martyrdom during the persecutions in Hierapolis. Then we will drive to Kuşadası. Overnight at a 4 star hotel in Kusadasi

Day 5: Ephesus

Early in the morning, we set out for Ephesus in Izmir. Our initial destination is the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be the place where she spent her final years. Then, we explore the ancient city of Ephesus, once the Roman Capital. Situated across from the island of Samos, Ephesus holds a distinctive position as the closest among Revelation's seven churches to the Island of Patmos, where the Apostle John authored the Book of Revelation. Experience a multitude of UNESCO-listed ruins in Ephesus, including the Temple of Hadrian, Celsus Library, the Great Theatre, Public Latrines, and Roman Baths. Take a leisurely stroll along the majestic Arcadian Avenue and explore the vibrant Agora. Delve into history by visiting the Cave of Seven Sleepers in Ephesus. Continue your journey with a visit to the Church of St. John, where the Apostle Paul preached to the Ephesians and resided for three years, leaving behind an epistle. Next on the agenda is the exploration of Selcuk Castle and Selcuk Archaeological Museum. Conclude your day by making a stop at the iconic Temple of Artemis. Overnight at a 4 star hotel in Kusadasi

DAY 6: Transfer to Airport

It's time to head back home! We'll arrange your transfer to Ä°zmir Airport as per your flight schedule. Have a safe and pleasant flight. We hope you enjoyed your time in Turkey with Sunnova.