House of Virgin Mary is a religious and touristic place located near the Selçuk district of Izmir province in western Turkey, and is considered to be the place where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her last years, according to Christian belief.
Determining the location of the House of Virgin Mary is based on Christian tradition. According to Christian belief, the house is believed to be where St. John the Apostle took care of Mary after Mary's death and that he settled in this house at the foot of a mountain near Ephesus. This belief is based on the idea that the Virgin Mary came to Ephesus after Jesus' crucifixion and death, and spent the last years of her life here.
The House of Virgin Mary has become an important holy place visited by many Christians and tourists over the years. Today, there is a visitor center where visitors can view the ruins of the house where Mary is believed to have lived. This site is of interest from an archaeological and historical perspective as well as from the Christian faith. The importance of the House of Virgin Mary for visitors is great with its historical and cultural context as well as its religious beliefs.
Kemeraltı Bazaar is one of the historical and traditional bazaars of Izmir. It is located in the center of Izmir, just behind Konak Square. Kemeraltı, one of the oldest and largest bazaars in Turkey, has survived to the present day by preserving its historical texture.
Kemeraltı Bazaar has been the center of trade since the Ottoman period and has expanded and developed in various periods. The bazaar is famous for its narrow streets, historical inns, fountains, mosques and various shops. It is a shopping center where you can find traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, textile products, jewelry, carpets, spices and many more products.
Kemeraltı Bazaar offers not only shopping but also a historical and cultural experience. While wandering through the maze-like streets of the bazaar, you can discover historical buildings, old fountains and religious buildings. Additionally, there are many traditional coffee houses, restaurants and patisseries in the bazaar, giving visitors the opportunity to relax and taste local delicacies.
Kemeraltı Bazaar is an important part of Izmir's cultural and historical fabric and a popular tourist spot for both local and foreign visitors.
The best time to visit Cappadocia is generally during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November). During these months, the weather is usually mild, the tourist crowds are smaller compared to summer, and the natural beauty (blooming flowers, autumn colors) enhances the enchanting atmosphere of the region.
Cappadocia by Season:
Spring (April-June): Temperatures range between 15-25°C. This period is perfect for hot air balloon tours and outdoor activities as nature comes alive with blooming flowers.
Summer (July-August): Temperatures can exceed 30°C. While the days are hot, early morning balloon rides are still enjoyable. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so it might be more crowded.
Autumn (September-November): Temperatures cool down to a pleasant 15-20°C. Especially in September and October, the weather is ideal for balloon rides and hiking. Vineyards in the region also look stunning during this time.
Winter (December-March): The weather is cold, and snow is possible. Cappadocia’s snow-covered landscapes offer a fairy-tale-like view. However, outdoor activities may be limited due to the cold.
If you are planning to join hot air balloon tours, spring or autumn is recommended to minimize the risk of cancellations due to weather conditions. Additionally, if you prefer a quieter experience, visiting during the off-season might be a better option.
