Embarking on a journey through Turkey to trace the footsteps of St. Paul offers a profound blend of spirituality and history. Start in Istanbul, where the ancient city of Byzantium connects you to the roots of early Christianity. Visit the Hagia Sophia, once the world’s largest Christian church, to sense the early Christian influence.
From Istanbul, travel to Antioch (Antakya), the starting point of Paul’s missionary journeys. Explore the Church of St. Peter, one of the oldest Christian sites, carved into a cave where early Christians gathered in secret.
Next, visit Cappadocia, known for its otherworldly landscapes and underground cities. Explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, with its rock-cut churches adorned with biblical frescoes, reflecting the early Christian era that St. Paul was part of.
Continue to İzmir, near the ancient city of Ephesus, where Paul preached and wrote several letters. Walk along the streets of Ephesus, visit the Grand Theatre, and stand before the Library of Celsus.
Finally, head to Çanakkale, the gateway to Troy and the Gallipoli Peninsula. Though not directly linked to Paul, the region’s deep history and proximity to the Aegean coast enrich the overall experience, offering a complete pilgrimage through Turkey’s spiritual and historical landscapes.
