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Church of Mary, Ephesus

AbrahamicChristianbuildingMediterranean431 CE - present
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Location

Modern Name
Council Church of Ephesus (Mary Church ruins)
Country
Turkey
Region
Mediterranean
Coordinates
37.9399, 27.3389
Era
431 CE - present
Site Type
Building
View on the Sacred Geography map

About

Ruins of the church where the Council of Ephesus (431 CE) declared Mary 'Theotokos' (God-bearer), a pivotal moment in Christological doctrine.

Significance

Site of one of the first seven Ecumenical Councils; Ephesus was a major Pauline mission city and traditionally associated with John the Apostle.

History & Historical Arc

Originally a 2nd-century CE Roman building converted to a church; the Council of Ephesus convened here in 431; Paul prea

Archaeological Notes

Austrian excavations at Ephesus since the 1890s; the Library of Celsus, harbor street, and Terrace Houses are among the

Key Features & Structures

  • Council Church ruins
  • Library of Celsus

Visitor Information

Ephesus ancient city has entrance fee; UNESCO World Heritage Site; Meryemana House a separate pilgrimage site 9km away.

Related Figures

Paul the ApostleJohn the ApostleTimothyPriscilla and Aquila

In the Bible

Bible Places
This location appears in the Bible as Ephesus
View verse references, maps, and biblical history →

Source References

  • Acts 19
  • Ephesians 1:1
  • Revelation 2:1-7