cottage where Mary is purported to have lived until she died a few years
later. According to legend, St. John the Apostle brought Mary to Ephesus
around 38 AD. The stone cottage was declared a shrine by the Vatican and now
belongs to the Catholic Church.
The next stop was to Ephesus - considered by many to be one of the most
important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. The ruins are extensive
and relatively well preserved. They reminded me of Pompeii. The living
conditions were amazing - they had toilets and hot water. And, many old
homes had some beautiful tile work and frescos. They sometimes hold concerts
in the old amphitheater - an older Red Rocks.
Next up, St. John's Bassilica, built in the 6th century at the southern foot
of Ayasuluk Castle, and is said to be built over the grave of John.
We then headed to a seaside hotel for lunch featuring specialties of the
region and to enjoy some local folk dancing.
The last stop was at the obligatory rug store where we learned about the
different materials and dyes used. The number of knots per square inch can
range from 40 to 1,000 knots. The silk rugs were truly a work of art and way
out of my price range.
We were their first ship this year, so everyone was excited to see us.
Everywhere you went there were stray cats and they all looked like they were
getting plenty to eat.
Our guide was wonderful and exhibited a great pride and love for his
country.
This morning leaving the ship it was cloudy and chilly - did not look good.
By the time I returned to the ship the sun was shining and it had gotten
very warm. Have high hopes for the upcoming days!
Going to take a nap and rest up for the Broncos game this evening. It does
not start until 10 PM here.
