The House of the Virgin

Jul 22, 2012 - Age Correspondent

The House of the Virgin, located in a nature park between Ephesus and Seljuk in Turkey, is believed to be the last residence of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus. The peaceful site is sacred to both Christians and Muslims.

The site was visited by Popes Paul VI and John Paul II, who confirmed its appropriateness as a place of pilgrimage. On November 29, 2006, Pope Benedict XVI celebrated mass here. The shrine at the House of the Virgin is still in the care of the Lazarist Fathers, who celebrate Mass here every day. Two resident nuns also recite the divine office daily.
The small, T-shaped stone building consists of a bedroom and a kitchen. The interior is kept simple and austere, fitted only with an altar, images of Mary and candles.
The spring that runs under the Virgin's House is believed to have healing properties, and many miracles have been
reported. A liturgical ceremony is held here every year on August 15 to commemorate the Assumption of Mary.

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