The Basilica of Saint John

The Basilica of Saint John, located in Selçuk near Ephesus, is a monumental 6th-century Byzantine church commissioned by Emperor Justinian I. Believed to be built over the tomb of Saint John the Apostle, it once rivaled the grandeur of Hagia Sophia with its cross-shaped design and six domes. Though now in ruins, its marble columns, ornate capitals, and fresco remnants showcase early Christian artistry. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Selçuk, the Isa Bey Mosque, and the Temple of Artemis from its grounds. The basilica remains an essential pilgrimage site and a testament to the region’s rich spiritual and architectural legacy.