Itinerary

1. Arrive in Izmir

   We fly from London to Izmir and transfer to our hotel for a welcome drink and dinner with our fellow pilgrims.

2. Visit Agora and Church of St. Polycarp

   We begin our day at the Agora Open Air Museum, the heart of what was once the ancient Greek city of Smyrna - one of the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation as “the church that remains faithful amidst persecution.” As we explore the ruins of this once-thriving Roman marketplace, we reflection its powerful Christian heritage. It was here, around 155 AD, that Polycarp, the revered Bishop of Smyrna and disciple of the Apostle John, was executed for his unwavering faith. After lunch, we visit the Church of St. Polycarp, the oldest in Izmir, named in honour of the city’s patron saint. Converted to Christianity by St. John the Evangelist, Polycarp became Bishop of Smyrna and played a vital role in the early Church.
   Overnight in Izmir

3. Visit Pergamum and Thyatira

   We begin the day with a visit to Pergamum (ancient Pergamon), a UNESCO World Heritage Site addressed in the Book of Revelation as ‘the church
   that compromises its beliefs’. Once a great Hellenistic city, it’s home to the Asklepion, a renowned centre of healing dedicated to the god Asclepius. Known for its advanced treatments - including water therapy, dream interpretation and music - it was one of the most important medical centres of the ancient world. In the afternoon, we continue to Akhisar, the site of ancient Thyatira ‘the church that follows false prophets’. Famous in antiquity for metalwork and dyeing, today it is a modern agricultural centre. The remains of the early Christian community lie within Ulu Cami, a former Byzantine church. Though little of the ancient church survives, Thyatira was urged in Revelation to hold fast to the truth despite false teaching - a
   reminder still relevant today. Overnight in Izmir.

4. Drive to Pamukkale via Sardis

   Today we visit Sardis ‘the church that is spiritually dead’, once one of the wealthiest Roman cities in the region and home to a large Jewish population. Though now a quiet site, Sardis played an important role in the growth of early Christianity. Once a thriving trade centre, Sardis today features the remains of the Temple of Artemis, a Jewish synagogue, a Byzantine church and evidence of daily Roman life. We continue to Philadelphia, known as “the church that patiently endured despite weaknesses.” A thriving Roman city and now a titular see of the Roman Catholic Church. Later, we visit Hierapolis in Pamukkale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its thermal springs. The city was once a major Greco-Roman centre and is believed to be the site of St Philip the Apostle’s martyrdom. Its ancient ruins and white travertine terraces offer a powerful setting for reflection. Overnight in Pamukkale.

5. Drive to Kusadasi via Laodicea and Aphrodisias

   This morning we drive to Laodicea, once a thriving centre of trade and early Christianity. Mentioned in Revelation as “the church with a lukewarm
   faith,” Laodicea challenges us to reflect on spiritual complacency. We continue to Aphrodisias, an ancient city dedicated to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty. Located in the Karacasu district, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its stunning temple ruins, theatre, and beautifully preserved stadium - offering a fascinating glimpse into classical art, culture and devotion. Overnight in Kusadasi.

6. Visit Priene, Didyma and Miletus

   Today we explore three remarkable ancient sites along the Aegean coast. We begin with Priene, a once-thriving Greek city known for its well-preserved Hellenistic architecture. During the Byzantine era, it became an important Christian centre and the seat of a bishop. Next, we visit Didyma, a sacred sanctuary dedicated to Apollo, the god of light and knowledge. Dominated by the impressive Temple of Apollo, the site also includes smaller shrines and domestic buildings, offering a glimpse into ancient religious life. Finally, we journey to Miletus, a powerful city of the
   ancient world and significant in early Christian history. According to Acts 20, it was here in 57 AD that Paul met with the elders of the Ephesian church to deliver his emotional farewell - an important moment near the end of his third missionary journey. Overnight in Kusadasi.

7. Visit Ephesus

   After breakfast, we explore the ancient city of Ephesus ‘the church that has abandoned its love for Christ and His teachings’, once the capital of Roman Asia and a vital centre of early Christianity. Known for its wealth and influence, Ephesus features remarkably preserved sites including the Marble Road, the ornate Temple of Hadrian, the grand Library of Celsus, and the impressive Great Theatre. We then visit the House of the Virgin Mary, set in the hills above the city. Tradition holds that Mary spent her final days here under the care of St John. A small chapel now marks the site and remains a peaceful place of pilgrimage and prayer. Before leaving, we’ll also view the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, once one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. We’ll have a farewell dinner in a local restaurant before returning to our hotel for our last night in Kusadasi.

8. Check out

   After breakfast transfer to Izmir Airport for our return flight to London.

Essential Information

Practical information

Dates