7-Day Seven Churches of Revelation; 7-Day Seven Churches of Revelation; Smyrna, Ephesus, Pergamon, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, Laodicea

Today focuses on Smyrna (Revelation 2:8–11), the church praised for its faithfulness amid persecution. Visit the Agora of Smyrna, a Roman marketplace that later became a center of early Christian life and martyrdom. Continue to St. Polycarp Church, dedicated to one of the earliest Christian martyrs and bishop of Smyrna, whose life and death symbolize the endurance of the early Christian community. The visit provides essential historical and spiritual context for the Seven Churches narrative. Overnight in Izmir.

Drive south to Ephesus, home to the Church of Ephesus (Revelation 2:1–7) and one of the most important cities of early Christianity. Explore the remarkably preserved ancient city, including the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, Marble Road, and commercial agora. Continue to St. John’s Basilica, traditionally believed to be the burial site of the Apostle John. Visit the House of the Virgin Mary, a major Christian pilgrimage site believed to be where Mary spent her final years. Overnight in Kuşadası.

Drive inland to Pamukkale, famous for its white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. Explore Hierapolis, an ancient spa city with strong early Christian associations, including the Martyrdom of St. Philip, one of the Twelve Apostles. Continue to Laodicea (Revelation 3:14–22), a wealthy banking and textile center criticized in Revelation for being “lukewarm.” Walking through its streets, theaters, and churches offers a powerful contrast between material prosperity and spiritual warning. Overnight in Pamukkale.

Travel north to Alaşehir, ancient Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7–13), the church praised for its steadfast faith despite hardship. Though limited remains survive, the site represents perseverance and spiritual resilience. Continue to Sardis (Revelation 3:1–6), once the capital of the Lydian Kingdom and a symbol of immense wealth. Visit the impressive gymnasium, synagogue, and city ruins, reflecting a community warned against spiritual complacency. Overnight in Manisa.

Visit Akhisar, ancient Thyatira (Revelation 2:18–29), known for its powerful trade guilds and commercial life. Discuss the challenges faced by early Christians living within a strong economic and social structure. Continue to Pergamon, described in Revelation (2:12–17) as the place “where Satan’s throne is.” Visit the dramatic Acropolis, perched high above the modern town, and the Asklepion, one of the ancient world’s most important healing centers. These sites illustrate the intense religious and cultural environment early Christians confronted. Overnight in Pergamon.

Drive back to Izmir for transfer to the airport and departure, concluding a meaningful journey through the lands of the Seven Churches of Revelation.