Turkey holds some of the most important sites in Catholic tradition — above all the House of the Virgin Mary. Here is how parishes and pilgrims can plan a journey.
For Catholic pilgrims — including the many parish and diocesan groups travelling from Latin America, the Philippines, Europe and beyond — Türkiye is a profoundly meaningful destination. It holds the House of the Virgin Mary, the graves of apostles and the cradle of the early Church.
The House of the Virgin Mary
Near Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary (Meryem Ana) is honoured as the place where Mary spent her final years, and has been visited by several popes. Mass is celebrated here, and it is the spiritual centre of most Catholic pilgrimages to Turkey — see our dedicated guide.
Apostolic & Early Church Sites
Pilgrims follow the footsteps of St Paul, visit the Seven Churches of Revelation, the Basilica of St John at Ephesus, and Antioch, where believers were first called Christians. Cappadocia’s cave churches add another rich layer.
Planning for Groups
We arrange dedicated Catholic pilgrimages with Mass at the holy sites, Spanish- or Portuguese-speaking guiding on request, comfortable coaches and hotels, and space for prayer. Explore our faith tourism service or plan a parish pilgrimage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Catholics make pilgrimage to Turkey?
Turkey holds the House of the Virgin Mary near Ephesus, the Seven Churches of Revelation, the Basilica of St John, sites of St Paul’s journeys and Antioch — making it one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage destinations after the Holy Land.
Can Mass be celebrated at the House of the Virgin Mary?
Yes. Mass is regularly celebrated at the House of the Virgin Mary, and we can arrange it as part of a group pilgrimage.
Can you organise Spanish or Portuguese speaking pilgrimages?
Yes. We can provide Spanish- or Portuguese-speaking guides on request for parish and diocesan groups from Latin America and beyond, along with priests’ needs for Mass at the holy sites.
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