Basilica of St. John
The Basilica of St. John, also known as the St. John's Basilica, is located in the ancient city of Ephesus, near the modern-day town of Selcuk in Turkey. Here are some key points about it:
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History: The basilica was built in the 6th century AD by Emperor Justinian I on the supposed burial site of St. John the Apostle, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus. According to tradition, St. John spent his last years in Ephesus and was buried there.
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Purpose: The basilica served as a major pilgrimage site in the Byzantine Empire, attracting Christians from all over the Mediterranean world who came to honor St. John.
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Architecture: The original basilica was a grand structure, with a cruciform plan and a dome supported by four large pillars. It was one of the largest churches in the region at the time of its construction.
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Destruction and Reconstruction: The basilica suffered damage over the centuries due to earthquakes and invasions. It was eventually abandoned in the 14th century, and its stones were used for other building projects in Selcuk. Today, only the ruins of the basilica remain.
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Archaeological Significance: Despite its ruined state, the Basilica of St. John is an important archaeological site. Excavations have uncovered parts of the basilica's foundation, columns, and mosaics, providing insights into its original grandeur and significance.
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Attractions: Visitors to the site can explore the ruins of the basilica, including its main aisle, baptistery, and some remnants of the walls and columns. There is also a nearby hill where the traditional site of St. John's burial is marked with a small chapel.
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Nearby Attractions: The Basilica of St. John is located close to other significant historical sites in Ephesus, including the Temple of Artemis and the House of the Virgin Mary, making it a part of a rich cultural and historical landscape.
The Basilica of St. John stands as a testament to the early Christian presence in Ephesus and the veneration of St. John the Apostle in the Byzantine period, offering visitors a glimpse into the religious and architectural history of the region.
