Footsteps of Saint Paul

Day 1: Arrival in Izmir

  • Welcome to Izmir, the starting point of our pilgrimage journey to the Seven Churches of Revelation.
  • Transfer to the hotel and settle in for the night, preparing for the spiritual adventure ahead.

Day 2: Izmir – Smyrna (Izmir) – Pergamon (Bergama) – Thyatira (Akhisar)

  • Depart Izmir and journey to Smyrna (modern-day Izmir), the first of the Seven Churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation (Revelation 2:8-11).
  • Explore the ancient ruins of Smyrna and reflect on the message to the persecuted church delivered by Saint John.
  • Continue to Pergamon (modern-day Bergama), where the ruins of the ancient city testify to its grandeur and significance. Visit the Acropolis, the Altar of Zeus, and the impressive Theatre, reflecting on Saint John’s letter to the church in Pergamon (Revelation 2:12-17).
  • Journey to Thyatira (modern-day Akhisar), where Saint John addressed the church known for its perseverance and faithfulness (Revelation 2:18-29).
  • Overnight stay in Akhisar, contemplating the lessons learned from the churches of Smyrna, Pergamon, and Thyatira.

Day 3: Akhisar – Sardis (Sart) – Philadelphia (Alaşehir) – Hierapolis (Pamukkale)

  • Depart Akhisar and travel to Sardis (modern-day Sart), once a prosperous city and home to one of the Seven Churches (Revelation 3:1-6).
  • Explore the archaeological site of Sardis, including the Temple of Artemis and the Gymnasium, reflecting on Saint John’s message to the church in Sardis.
  • Continue to Philadelphia (modern-day Alaşehir), known for its enduring faith and steadfastness (Revelation 3:7-13). Visit the remains of the ancient city and meditate on Saint John’s words of encouragement to the church in Philadelphia.
  • Journey to Hierapolis (modern-day Pamukkale), where the thermal springs and travertine terraces offer a glimpse of God’s creation. Reflect on Saint John’s letter to the church in Laodicea, located nearby (Revelation 3:14-22).
  • Overnight stay in Pamukkale, contemplating the spiritual significance of Sardis, Philadelphia, and Hierapolis.

Day 4: Pamukkale – Laodicea (Denizli) – Return to Izmir

  • Visit Laodicea (modern-day Denizli), the final destination of our pilgrimage journey. Explore the archaeological site, including the remains of the ancient city and the impressive stadium.
  • Reflect on Saint John’s admonition to the lukewarm church in Laodicea and consider its relevance to our own faith journey (Revelation 3:14-22).
  • Return to Izmir, where our pilgrimage began, and spend the evening in reflection and gratitude for the spiritual insights gained from our journey through the Seven Churches of Revelation.

Day 5: Departure from Izmir

  • Transfer to Izmir Airport for departure, carrying with us the memories and spiritual lessons of our pilgrimage to the Seven Churches of Revelation.
  • End of the tour, with a renewed sense of faith and purpose in our hearts.