House of the Virgin Mary
The House of the Virgin Mary, located near Ephesus in Turkey, is traditionally believed to be the last residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Here's some information about it:
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Location: The House of the Virgin Mary is situated on Mount Koressos, about 7 kilometers from Ephesus, near the modern-day town of Selcuk in Turkey.
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History: According to tradition, the house was where Mary lived in her later years, accompanied by St. John the Apostle. The belief is based on the visions of Anne Catherine Emmerich, a German nun and mystic in the 19th century, which led to the discovery and identification of the site.
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Visits: The site attracts visitors from around the world, including pilgrims and tourists. It is considered a holy place in both Christian and Muslim traditions.
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Architecture: The current building dates to the 6th century, but parts of it may be older. It is a small stone house with a chapel added later.
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Pope's Visit: Pope Paul VI visited the site in 1967, confirming its significance to Catholic believers.
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Muslim Pilgrimage: The site is also revered by Muslims, who recognize Mary as the mother of a prophet (Jesus) and visit the house as a place of pilgrimage.
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Archaeological Significance: While the religious significance is paramount, the site also holds archaeological interest due to its ancient foundations and the layers of history it represents.
The House of the Virgin Mary continues to be a place of prayer, reflection, and pilgrimage for people of various faiths, symbolizing Mary's role as a central figure in Christianity and Islam.
