4 Days 7 Churches of Revelations in Turkey

7 Churches of Revelations Tour

The Seven Churches of Revelation, also known as the Seven Churches of Asia, were a group of early Christian communities located in the Roman province of Asia, which is now part of modern-day Turkey. These churches are mentioned in the Book of Revelation, the last book of the New Testament, which is attributed to the apostle John.

The seven churches are; Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea

Each of these churches was addressed in a specific letter in the Book of Revelation, which contains messages of praise, criticism, and exhortation from Jesus Christ to the churches and their leaders. The letters are believed to have been written in the late first century AD, during a time of persecution of Christians by the Roman Empire.

Today, the seven churches are popular destinations for Christian pilgrims and tourists who want to visit the sites associated with the early Christian communities mentioned in the Book of Revelation. Many of these sites have been excavated and preserved, and some of the ancient churches still stand.

The 7 Churches of Revelation Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Izmir – Pergamon (Lunch included)

Commence your journey of the 7 Churches of Revelation with a visit to Izmir, previously known as Smyrna in ancient times. Meet your guide and visit the church of Saint Polycarp, dedicated to the faithful martyred disciple of John. After exploring the “Agora” in the ancient city of Smyrna, proceed to Bergama to witness the rich remnants of the ancient city of Pergamon, where “the Satan’s throne” was believed to be located. Overnight stay in Bergama.

• Smyrna Biblical Reference – Revelation: 2:8-11

• Pergamon Biblical Reference – Revelation: 2:12-17

Day 2: Thyatira – Sardis – Philadelphia (Breakfast and Lunch included)

Following breakfast and check-out, travel to Thyatira to visit the ruins of an ancient church in a city founded by Lydians, where a false prophet named “Jezebel” had misled the church congregation. Proceed to the magnificent Sardis, the wealthy capital of the Lydian empire, where the first coins of the ancient world were minted. En route to Pamukkale, visit the ruins of an ancient church in Philadelphia, where the faithful congregation suffered much and was praised by St. John. Overnight stay in Pamukkale.

• Thyatira Biblical Reference – Revelation: 2:18-29

• Philadelphi Biblical Reference – Revelation: 3:7-13

• Sardes Biblical Reference – Revelation: 3:1-6

Day 3: Hierapolis- Pamukkale – Laodicea (Breakfast and Lunch included)

In the morning, visit the ancient city of Hierapolis, home of Philip the Evangelist. After witnessing the tomb of Philip and the octagon church, take a break at the calcium terraces of Pamukkale and enjoy the stunning scenery. Then, proceed to Laodicea, known as “The City of Compromise,” where St. John referred to the congregation as “lukewarm” due to their indifferent nature. Overnight stay in Kusadasi.

Laodicea Biblical Reference – Revelation: 3:14-22

Hierapolis Biblical Reference – Colossians 4.12-13

Day 4: Ephesus – The House of Virgin Mary – Basilica of John (Breakfast and Lunch included)

Travel to Ephesus, the most complete ancient city in Turkey that John criticized for “abandoning their first love.” Walk through history along the marble streets adorned with magnificent buildings such as the Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, the Odeon, and the great Theatre where St. Paul preached and was attacked by a hostile crowd. Later, drive to the House of Virgin Mary, where she spent her last days. Continue to the Basilica of John, believed to be his resting place. Finally, visit the Temple Of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. The tour concludes with a transfer to Izmir Airport.

• Ephesus Biblical Reference – Revelation: 1:11:2:1-7 and Acts 18:19-28:19