The cruise from Mykonos to Turkey was interrupted about 5 am for the ship to stop at the last Greece island before entering Turkish waters. A group of students from a country not the USA were not allowed to go to Turkey. They missed the history, the beauty and the experience of this wonderful, hospitable country and people. At no time did I feel unsafe and I learned about a history and culture that spans centuries. Our guide told us that the harbor where we docked usually had 6-8 ships...there were only 2. These countries, particularly Greece, does not export a lot to maintain their economy. The tourists that visit from May-October are their asset. I was amazed at how the hotels conserved energy by having the room key activate the lights and the low flush toilets. All the solar panels on private houses. And the fact that they do not allow construction during the tourist season so that the roads are not interfering with tourists enjoying their country. Fear is contagious, but the chances of YOU being directly touched by it are minuscule.
So, our first tour (Part 1) of the Turkish coast was to the Shrine of the Virgin Mary. It is, according the the scriptures, the last home of the Virgin Mary. It sits atop a mountain surrounded by the Ephesus valley and the Menderes river (Meander River). It was found by two scientific expeditions in 1891. The Chapel,l seen here, was determined to date back to the 1st & 4th centuries. Being rebuilt on the same site several times. Along the walk there is a wall of wishes, hopes and dreams left by visitors who come to the shrine. It is said that if one blows away, it will come true. No photos were allowed inside the chapel. Really a wonderful, serene place.
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| Shire of the Virgin Mary |
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| Wishes and Dreams |
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| Statue of the Virgin Mary |
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