Seven Churches in Turkey

The first church is in Ephesus, where St John lived. Because Ephesus was an important Roman city, the Church congregation here is believed to have been quite strong, with Christianity eventually becoming the city’s chief religion. Today, visitors can enjoy taking in the sites of the Roman city and key sites of Christian history. Mary’s house and the tomb of St. John are key sites of interest, St Mary is believed to have lived out her days here before being buried in the Church of Mary

Smyrna in ancient times was a very wealthy and powerful city, indeed it vied with Ephesus and Pergamon for influence in the region. Today, Smyrna is located within modern-day İzmir, a city that has almost continuously been inhabited for centuries. The ancient city of Smyrna was largely absorbed into the city and, as such, there are remnants of ancient life throughout. The most important historical structure is the Agora, one of the best-preserved structures of ancient Ionia. Christianity in Smyrna is thought to have developed out of the large Jewish population that used to live in the area, as people defected from Judaism and were baptised in the Christian faith.

Pergamon is one of Turkey’s most interesting and visited ancient sites. Dating as far back as the Archaic Period, the surviving structures include the Theatre, the Temples of Athena and Dionysus and the Gymnasium. Pergamon was a large city, significant in both political and commercial arenas, citizens would have enjoyed full, busy lives. Christianity in Pergamon was at odds with the city’s strong belief and history of worship of Pagan Gods. This clash of the Christian and the Pagan is something that the letter to the Church addressed, praising those who held fast in their Christian faith and admonishing those who persisted in the worship of pagan Gods.

The fourth Church, ancient Thyatira, now lies within Akhisar. Once a city famed for bronze work and weaving, this modern city is now one of Türkiye’s largest tobacco and olive oil growing regions. The ancient church featured in the book of revelations may be found in modern Akhisar’s Ulu Cami (Great Mosque). The building is a former Byzantine church that was converted following the Ottoman conquest of the region. The Church of Thyatira was told to persist in their beliefs, despite the lack of a strong church in the city. Today there are few suggestions that Christianity once thrived in the region.

Sardis was one of the wealthiest Roman cities in the area. Home to a significant Jewish population, Sardis was a bustling city important to the growth of the Church in the area. Once a thriving trade centre, Sardis today features the remains of the Temple of Artemis, a Jewish synagogue, a Byzantine church and evidence of daily Roman life. Sardis is a smaller site but definitely worth the time to explore

Philadelphia was a thriving city under Roman rule. Modern-day Alasehir (God’s City) is a titular see of the Roman Catholic Church. Artefacts from Alasehir’s colorful past are found throughout the city. The Church of St John and the St Jean Church are the key remaining Christian sites in the city.

Laodicea was, in ancient times, a key city in the area. Important for trade and as an important Christian site, Laodicea lies a few hours to the north of modern Denizli. The city was ruined many times by earthquakes, before ultimately being abandoned. Now, excavation and restoration projects are being carefully carried out, revealing the history and importance of the site. The reconstructed Basilicas feature intricate mosaics and are sure to delight visitors and are most definitely worth the time to explore.