Visit the Cities of Revelation: Ephesus, Pergamum & Ancient Turkey
Walk through Ephesus, Pergamum and other ancient cities whose names are familiar from the Bible. These carefully selected journeys through western Turkey offer a remarkable opportunity to see the geography, ruins and cultural setting of the first-century congregations for yourself.
Walk Through Places You've Read About
Western Turkey preserves some of the most impressive archaeological sites connected with the Christian Greek Scriptures. Here stood prosperous Roman cities, busy ports, temples, marketplaces and theaters. Congregations were established here, Christians faced very real pressures, and inspired letters were written to people who lived and worshipped in these communities.
A visit cannot recreate the first century, but seeing the distances, terrain and scale of these ancient cities can make familiar Bible accounts much easier to picture.
Ephesus
Bible connections: Acts 18:18–21; Acts 19:1–41; Acts 20:17–38; Ephesians; Revelation 2:1–7
Ephesus was one of the major cities of Roman Asia. The apostle Paul spent considerable time here, and Acts records both the success of the preaching work and the fierce opposition it produced. The city's enormous theater, streets and public buildings help give a sense of the setting behind the events recorded in Acts chapter 19.
Pergamum
Bible connection: Revelation 2:12–17
Pergamum was an important political and religious center. Its elevated acropolis, monumental buildings and temples reveal something of the environment in which the first-century congregation lived. Jesus specifically commended Christians there who continued to hold firmly to their faith despite intense pressure.
Hierapolis
Bible connection: Colossians 4:13
Hierapolis is mentioned alongside Laodicea when Paul speaks of the efforts of Epaphras in behalf of Christians in the region. The ancient city sits above the striking mineral terraces of Pamukkale and remains one of western Turkey's memorable archaeological sites.
Selected Journeys
Ways to Experience These Places
We've selected organized tours that include places connected with Bible history. These tours are operated independently and are not organized or conducted by Meek Travel.
Our First Choice
3 Days: Ephesus, Pamukkale & Pergamum
3 days · Starts and ends in Istanbul
A focused option for travelers primarily interested in the ancient cities. The itinerary includes Ephesus, Pergamum and Hierapolis, making it particularly well suited to someone who wants to see several places mentioned in the Christian Greek Scriptures without committing to a lengthy tour.
- Explore ancient Ephesus
- Visit Pergamum
- Walk through Hierapolis
- See the Pamukkale terraces
6 Days: Troy, Pergamum, Ephesus & Hierapolis
6 days · Istanbul to Fethiye
This longer route adds Istanbul, Troy and other stops to the major sites of Pergamum, Ephesus and Hierapolis. It's a good choice for travelers who want to see more of western Turkey while still including several locations of particular interest to Bible students.
- Explore Istanbul
- Visit ancient Troy
- Explore the Pergamum Acropolis
- Walk through Ephesus
- Visit Hierapolis and Pamukkale
Greece, Turkey & Egypt: Ancient Civilizations
11 days · Athens to Cairo
For travelers looking for a larger Mediterranean journey, this itinerary combines Greece, Turkey and Egypt. It includes Athens, Istanbul and Cairo and can serve as a broader introduction to lands that played significant roles in ancient history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Ephesus and Pergamum today?
Both ancient cities are located in modern-day Turkey. The ruins of Ephesus are near Selçuk, while ancient Pergamum is near the modern city of Bergama.
Is Ephesus mentioned in the Bible?
Yes. Ephesus appears prominently in Acts chapters 18 through 20. Paul spent considerable time there, the letter to the Ephesians was addressed to Christians in Ephesus, and the congregation is addressed in Revelation 2:1–7.
Is Pergamum mentioned in the Bible?
Yes. The Christian congregation in Pergamum is addressed in Revelation 2:12–17.
Is Hierapolis mentioned in the Bible?
Yes. Hierapolis is specifically mentioned at Colossians 4:13, along with Laodicea.
Can you visit these ancient Bible cities today?
Yes. Ephesus, Pergamum and Hierapolis are archaeological sites open to visitors in Turkey. Organized tours make it possible to visit several of them during the same journey.
What Bible sites can you visit in western Turkey?
Western Turkey includes several ancient cities connected with the Christian Greek Scriptures, including Ephesus, Pergamum, Hierapolis, Laodicea, Smyrna and other cities named in Revelation.
Does Meek Travel operate these tours?
No. Meek Travel provides information and recommendations for travelers interested in Bible history. The featured trips are independently operated and can be booked through TourRadar.
Why visit these places?
Seeing the geography, ruins and scale of these ancient cities can make familiar Bible accounts easier to picture. A visit can help give a clearer sense of the environment in which first-century Christians lived, preached and faced opposition.
Before You Choose a Tour
Tour itineraries, departure dates, prices and included activities can change. Check the current itinerary carefully before booking if visiting a particular archaeological site is important to you.
Meek Travel does not operate these tours and cannot guarantee an operator's itinerary or services. Our goal is simply to help travelers find practical ways to visit places that may add meaning to their personal Bible study.
