Ephesus was a thriving Roman city during the life of Christ. After His death, the Apostles fanned out to spread his message. Saint John retreated to Ephesus to write the Gospel of John and four other books in the New Testament while also watching over the Virgin Mary. He was buried here in 98 AD. Saint Paul lived in the city for more than two years to denounce the worship of the goddess Artemis. His preaching incited a riot near the Great Theatre. He also wrote letters to the Ephesians until his execution in Rome. A frequent missionary companion of Paul was Saint Luke the Evangelist. Some speculate his grave is near Magnesian Gate. Lastly, the Virgin Mary resided in Ephesus from the age of 54 to 63. You can visit the House of the Virgin Mary (Meryemana Evi) about four miles away.
