Basilica Of Saint John — Attraction in Selçuk

Visiting St. John’s Basilica in Selçuk, Turkiye, is a moving and unforgettable experience. Set against the scenic backdrop of rolling hills, this monumental basilica is more than just an architectural wonder—it’s a place rich in history, faith, and global significance. Built on the believed burial site of St. John the Apostle, it stands as a testament to early Christianity and offers a profound connection to one of the most influential figures in religious history.

Constructed in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian, St. John’s Basilica was once one of the largest and most impressive churches of its time. Its ruins, with grand arches, towering columns, and intricate mosaics, still reflect the scale and splendor of the original structure. Walking through the basilica’s remains, you can feel the deep reverence and devotion that went into its construction, honoring St. John, who is said to have spent his final years in nearby Ephesus and was believed to have been buried here.

The basilica is significant not only for its religious importance but also for its influence on Christian architecture. Its unique cross-shaped design and architectural style inspired other churches and religious structures across the Byzantine world, leaving a legacy that extended well beyond its walls.

One of the highlights is the crypt, where the tomb of St. John is located. Standing by his tomb, you get a sense of the historical and spiritual weight this place holds for millions of people around the world. It’s humbling to think of the countless pilgrims who have journeyed here for centuries to honor the Apostle and to connect with a profound part of Christian history.

Beyond its religious significance, the basilica offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the ancient city of Ephesus and the Isa Bey Mosque, bridging diverse eras and faiths in one view. The serene atmosphere invites reflection, making it not only a historical site but a place of peace and contemplation.

St. John’s Basilica is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, faith, and architecture. It stands as a symbol of enduring faith and cultural heritage that resonates across time and borders. Visiting this sacred site is an experience that leaves a lasting impression, offering a rare glimpse into a world where history, spirituality, and beauty come together in...

Really enjoyed our trip here, and contrary to a post I read online which stated that it was a 1.6 km walk up a hill, this was not at all the case for us, as we were able to park very conveniently in the car park located just outside the entrance, for 25 lira. It was an interesting visit through the ruins of the church, with the baptistery still intact. You can also walk up to the Ayasoluk Castle at the top of the hill, but recommend this only for those of you with steady mountain goat legs! This is accessed by walking through the St John's Basilica Church. There is also a teashop halfway up for refreshments and souvenirs. This place is well worth a visit, set aside a couple of hours for this at least. We went in mid April and it was beautiful, filled with blossom of all kinds, lilac and other flowers. Down the hill in Selcuk also has some nice ordinary Turkish restaurants and shops you...

Aziz Yohannes (St. John) Bazilikası

Tarihî ve Dini Arka Plan Konum ve Kutsallık: İzmir’in Selçuk ilçesindeki Ayasuluk Tepesi üzerinde yer alan bu bazilika, İncil’in yazarı Havari Aziz Yuhannes’in gömülü olduğuna inanılan mekân üzerinde inşa edilmiştir. . İlk Yapılar: 4. yüzyılda buraya küçük bir şapel inşa edilmiş, daha sonra Doğu Roma İmparatoru I. Justinianus (527–565) tarafından görkemli bir Hristiyan mabedi haline getirilmiştir. . Mimari Özellikler Plan ve Boyut: Haç planlı olan bazilika, ana kubbe etrafında altı kubbeye sahip geniş bir yapıdır. Yaklaşık 130 m × 40 m boyutlarındadır. . Malzeme ve Süslemeler: Artemis Tapınağı gibi antik yapılardan alınan taşlar kullanılmış, mermer sütunlar ve mozaik döşemeyle süslenmiştir. Justinianus ve eşi Theodora’nın monogramları sütun başlıklarında yer alır. . Kapı & Vaftizhane: “Takdis Kapısı” olarak bilinen ana giriş kapısı dikkat çeker. Ayrıca kuzey yanında ana yapıdan bağımsız bir vaftizhane (baptistery) bulunur. . Tarihî Dönüşümler Koruma Amaçlı İnşa: 7.–8. yüzyıllarda Arap akınlarına karşı korunmak amacıyla etrafı sur ve kalelerle kuşatılmıştır. . Dönüşümler ve Yıkımlar: 1304’te Selçuklu döneminde camiye çevrilmiş, 1402’de Timurlenk’in istilası sırasında büyük hasar görmüş, uzun yıllar harabe olarak kalmıştır. . Arkeolojik Çalışmalar: 20. yüzyıl ortalarında Avusturyalı arkeologlar kazılar yapmış; günümüzde Pamukkale Üniversitesi öncülüğünde restorasyon sürmektedir. . Ziyaretçi Deneyimi Görünebilir Kalıntılar: Halen taş merdivenler, sütun temelleri ve bazı duvar kalıntıları görülebilir; kilisenin büyüklüğü ve ihtişamı hakkında fikir verir. . Manzara: Tepede yer alması nedeniyle Selçuk ve Efes vadisinin panoramik manzarasına sahiptir; civarında İsa Bey Camii, Artemis Tapınağı ve Ayasuluk Kalesi gibi önemli yapılar bulunur. . Özet Tablo Kuruluş 4. yüzyılda küçük şapel; 6. yüzyılda Justinianus dönemi haç planlı bazilika Mimari Altı kubbeli haç plan; Artemis taşları; Justinianus-Theodora monogramı Tarihçesi Arap saldırıları / camiiye dönüşüm / Timurlenk yıkımı / 20. yy’da kazı & restorasyon Ziyaretin Avantajı Tarih, din, mimari ve muhteşem manzarayı bir arada sunar; Selçuk’un merkezi...