Tours

On the Footsteps of St. Paul

Turkey, rich in history and culture, is also a land steeped in the stories of early Christianity, particularly the missionary journeys of St. Paul, one of Christianity’s most significant figures. St. Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, is renowned for his letters and the pivotal role he played in spreading Christianity across the Roman Empire. His travels took him through numerous cities in modern-day Turkey, and his influence on the development of the Christian faith cannot be overstated. This tour traces St. Paul’s footsteps through Turkey, visiting key locations where he preached, built churches, and established the Christian faith.

From the bustling streets of ancient cities to the quiet ruins of long-forgotten temples, the journey through Turkey on the trail of St. Paul offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of Christianity’s early days and the profound historical sites that mark its growth.

Day 1: Arrival in Tarsus – Birthplace of St. Paul

Our journey begins in Tarsus, the birthplace of St. Paul, located in the modern-day province of Mersin in southern Turkey. Tarsus was a prominent city in the Roman Empire and a significant cultural hub. It was here that Saul was born and grew up, receiving both a Jewish and Roman education, which would later serve him well in his mission to spread Christianity.

Exploring the Ancient City of Tarsus

Upon arrival, visitors will explore the remnants of Tarsus, where traces of its Roman and Hellenistic past are still evident. The Cleopatra Gate, a monumental entrance to the city, and the Roman Road, are just a few of the historical landmarks that echo the grandeur of Tarsus in St. Paul’s time. The St. Paul Church, located in the city, marks the spot where the apostle’s legacy is honored, and visitors can learn about his early life and the influence of his hometown on his ministry.

The city of Tarsus offers a glimpse into St. Paul’s early life, and as visitors walk through the streets, they can reflect on how the place shaped his worldviews and his later missionary work.

Day 2: Antioch – The Birthplace of Christian Community

From Tarsus, the tour takes us to Antioch (Antakya), one of the most significant cities in early Christianity and a pivotal stop in St. Paul’s missionary journey. Antioch, located near the Orontes River, was a thriving metropolis and a melting pot of different cultures, providing a fertile ground for the spread of Christian teachings. It was in Antioch that the followers of Jesus were first called Christians (Acts 11:26), and it was here that St. Paul and Barnabas began their missionary work.

Walking in the Footsteps of St. Paul in Antioch

Visitors will explore the St. Peter’s Church, carved into the mountainside, believed to be one of the earliest places of Christian worship. The church is also linked to St. Peter, who is said to have preached there before St. Paul arrived. Antioch’s Archaeological Museum showcases many artifacts from the city’s early Christian period, providing further insight into the religious dynamics of the time.

As visitors walk through the city, they can reflect on the important role Antioch played in shaping early Christianity and how it became a key base for Paul’s missionary activities.

Day 3: Ephesus – The City of the Goddess and Early Christian Influence

Next, the tour continues to Ephesus, one of the most famous ancient cities in Turkey and a key site in St. Paul’s journey. Ephesus, known for its stunning Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was a thriving metropolis and a center of pagan worship. St. Paul spent a significant amount of time in Ephesus, preaching to the people and establishing a strong Christian community.

Exploring the Ruins of Ephesus

Ephesus offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural life of the ancient world. The Great Theatre, where St. Paul faced opposition from the silversmiths who made idols of Artemis, and the Celsus Library, an architectural marvel, are among the most prominent sites in the city. The Ephesus Archaeological Museum offers additional insights into the ancient city’s life, with numerous Christian artifacts, early Christian inscriptions, and relics that show the city’s transition from paganism to Christianity.

Ephesus was a major center for early Christian activity, and visitors will reflect on how St. Paul’s teachings, although controversial, found fertile ground in this vibrant city.

Day 4: Pisidian Antioch – Preaching in the Heart of Asia Minor

The next stop on the journey is Pisidian Antioch, located in the modern-day region of Turkey’s Isparta province. Although not as well known as its counterpart in Syria, Pisidian Antioch played an important role in Paul’s missionary journey. It was here that Paul preached in the synagogue and converted many Gentiles to Christianity.

A Walk Through the Ancient City

Visitors will explore the Ancient Pisidian Antioch, with its impressive Roman ruins, including the city’s old walls and the ancient theater, where Paul is believed to have preached. The Antioch Pisidian Church is an important site for pilgrims, marking the spot where Paul delivered his famous sermon (Acts 13:16-41). The site offers a chance to understand the complexities and challenges Paul faced in spreading Christianity to non-Jews.

Day 5: Iconium – A City of Conflict and Conversion

Iconium (Konya), another important stop on St. Paul’s journey, is located in the central Anatolian region of Turkey. In Iconium, Paul and Barnabas faced intense opposition from both Jews and Gentiles, but despite the conflict, they successfully spread the message of Christ.

Visiting Iconium’s Ancient Sites

Visitors to Iconium can explore the Konya Archaeological Museum, which holds a collection of artifacts related to St. Paul’s time in the city. The Alaeddin Mosque and Sultanhani Caravanserai are significant historical landmarks that offer insights into the cultural evolution of the city, while the city’s ancient walls recall the tumultuous period when Paul preached in the face of resistance.

Day 6: Return to Ephesus and Reflection

The final leg of the journey brings us back to Ephesus, where the group will reflect on the journey of St. Paul through Turkey. A visit to St. John’s Basilica and the House of the Virgin Mary near Ephesus adds another layer of reflection on the early Christian foundations in Turkey.

The tour concludes with a farewell dinner, where visitors can share their experiences and discuss the profound impact St. Paul’s ministry had on the early church, not only in Turkey but across the Roman Empire.

Conclusion: A Spiritual Journey Through the Heart of Early Christianity

Tracing the footsteps of St. Paul through Turkey offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the rich history of Christianity’s early days. From the bustling streets of Tarsus to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the cities of Turkey stand as silent witnesses to the efforts of a man who shaped the course of history. As we walk in St. Paul’s footsteps, we gain a deeper understanding of his mission, the challenges he faced, and the enduring legacy of his faith.

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