THE 7 APOCALYPTICAL CHURCHES

Welcome to Istanbul. Upon arrival at Istanbul’s airport, transfer to the hotel with
assistance. Check in, and time to relax.

After breakfast, full day tour at the Old City. The Old City of Istanbul, also known as
Sultanahmet, stands as a living testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
Encompassing a mesmerizing blend of Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman influences,
this historic district is a treasure trove of iconic landmarks and architectural marvels.
Dominated by the majestic Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral turned mosque turned
museum, and the stunning Blue Mosque with its intricate tile work and grand domes,
the Old City is a canvas painted with centuries of civilization. Wandering through its
labyrinthine streets, one encounters the Hippodrome, an ancient chariot racing arena,
the sprawling Topkapi Palace that once housed Ottoman sultans, where Visitors can
explore the intricate design of the Imperial Council Chamber, and witness the
opulence of the Treasury showcasing priceless treasures. Every corner holds tales of
conquests, empires, and the fusion of cultures, making the Old City of Istanbul a
captivating destination that preserves the soul of the city's illustrious past. After
completing the visits, the last stop will be the Grand Bazaar. Dating back to the 15th
century, this iconic bazaar features over 4,000 shops spread across a maze-like network
of alleys and courtyards. It's a vibrant hub where artisans and merchants sell a diverse
array of goods. Finally, transfer to the hotel. Accommodation in Istanbul.
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, full day city tour. First visit is to Sveti Stefan Church, also known as the
Bulgarian St. Stephen Church, is an Orthodox church. It is renowned for its architectural
beauty and historical significance. The church was built in the late 19th century and
served as the Bulgarian Orthodox Exarchate's main church during the Ottoman
Empire. The architectural style of the Sveti Stefan Church reflects elements of the
Neo-Byzantine style, featuring a distinctive red-brick facade and ornate interior
decorations. It stands as a testament to the cultural and religious heritage of the
Bulgarian community in Istanbul. Next visit is to The Orthodox Ecumenical
Patriarchate, commonly known as the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, is
the highest institution in the Eastern Orthodox Church. The Ecumenical Patriarchate
has its historical roots in the early Christian Church and is considered one of the oldest
and most prominent patriarchates within Orthodoxy. Next visit is to Süleymaniye
Mosque, one of the most magnificent and significant landmarks in Istanbul. Designed
by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, this mosque was completed in the
16th century, around 1557. Visit to the Egyptian Bazaar (Species Market), followed by a
visit to the Istiklal pedestrian street and the possibility of attending mass in the Church
of Saint Antonio. Finally, transfer to the hotel and accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, departure for Akhisar, known as Tiatira in the ancient times, a city
mentioned in the Book of Revelation as one of the seven churches to which letters
were addressed by the Apostle John. Akhisar's historical significance might have
included the production of purple dye or textiles, among other industries, contributing
to its importance in the ancient world. Next visit will be to the remains of a basilica from
the Roman Empire period. Transfer to Pergamon, one of the earliest known places
where parchment was used, during the Hellenistic period. The city's library had an
important role in the development of parchment, which eventually led to the term
"parchment" being derived from "pergamenum." Visit to Acropolis, the steepest grand
theater in the World. The Temple of Trajan, Athena and the Great Altar of Pergamon will
be seen here. Last visit of the day is to the Red Basilica, an impressive structure believed
to have been a temple dedicated to Egyptian gods. Transfer to the hotel in Izmir, dinner
and accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, visit to the Izmir Agora, also known as the Smyrna Agora, was a central
public space in ancient Greek cities used as a marketplace and a gathering area for
civic, social, and commercial activities. Departure for Sardis, the capital of the ancient
kingdom of Lydia and later became an important city in the Persian Empire and the
Roman period. The city had notable landmarks such as the Temple of Artemis, a
gymnasium, a synagogue, and a large Roman bath complex. Sardis is historically
significant for being one of the first places where standardized gold coins, known as
"Croesids," were minted. Last visit is to Philadelphia, founded in the 2nd century BC,
notable for its historical significance as one of the Seven Churches of Revelation. After
visiting The Church of Saint John, transfer to Laodikeia, founded by Seleucus I Nicator,
one of Alexander the Great's generals, in the 3rd century BC. This city had one of the
seven churches of the Apocalypsis. Finally, transfer to the hotel in Pamukkale, dinner
and accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast visit to Pamukkale, the ‘Cotton Castle’, describing the surreal
appearance created by the calcium-rich travertine terraces formed over millennia by
mineral-rich thermal waters. The site is home to the ancient city of Hierapolis, where
well-preserved ruins, including theaters, temples, and a necropolis, offer insights into
the region's ancient history. The theater is the largest necropolis in Anatolia, featuring
the Martyrium of Saint Philip, a site honoring the Christian apostle. Next visit of the day
is The basilica of St. John, was constructed during the Byzantine period in the 6th
century AD by Emperor Justinian I. It was dedicated to John the Apostle, who is
traditionally believed to have been buried there. Departure for Ephesus, an ancient
Greek and Roman city of great historical and cultural significance. Once a thriving port
city of 250.000 inhabitants, Ephesus was renowned for its status as a center of trade,
culture, and religion in the ancient world. The city was home to notable landmarks such
as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theater, the Temple of Artemis (one of the Seven
Wonders of the Ancient World). Ephesus was also significant in Christian history as it is
believed to be the site where Saint Paul preached and where the Gospel of John might
have been written. Finally, transfer to the hotel in Kuşadası, dinner and
accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Kuşadası port. Or, to Izmir airport to return to
Istanbul.
Meals: Breakfast