Origins & Faith: A Sacred Journey

Where sacred paths, ancient traditions, and timeless landscapes reveal the spiritual heartbeat of civilizations past.

Across the ancient lands of Türkiye, faith has shaped landscapes, rituals, stories, and communities for thousands of years. Here, prophets walked, scripture was lived, and early believers carved sanctuaries deep into the earth. The Origins & Faith journey invites you to step into these sacred spaces—quiet chapels, desert valleys, ancient temples, and hillside sanctuaries where history and spirituality intertwine.

From Abraham’s birthplace and the world’s oldest known temple at Göbeklitepe to the House of the Virgin Mary and the early Christian cave churches of Cappadocia, each moment reveals another piece of the spiritual mosaic woven across this land. Whether you come seeking connection, meaning, or simply a deeper understanding of the world’s shared heritage, this journey offers space to reflect, learn, and feel the weight and beauty of stories that have endured for millennia.

5-DAY ITINERARY

Day 2 — Göbeklitepe: The Dawn of Belief

Journey to Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple—older than Stonehenge, older than the pyramids, older than recorded history. Walk among its T-shaped pillars and intricate carvings, witnessing the earliest expressions of worship and community.

Day 3 — Mount Ararat Region: Where Legend Meets Landscape

Travel toward the foothills of Mount Ararat, long associated with Noah’s Ark. Explore the region’s quiet villages, ancient monasteries, and sweeping valleys. This day is a blend of myth, history, and breathtaking scenery.

Day 1 — Şanlıurfa: The Birthplace of Abraham

Begin in Şanlıurfa, a city revered across Abrahamic traditions. Visit Abraham’s Pool, wander the courtyards of historic mosques, and experience the living faith woven into daily life. Explore the bustling bazaar and taste local dishes rich with ancient flavors.

Day 4 — Ephesus & The House of Mary

Fly west to Ephesus for a spiritual and historical immersion. Visit the peaceful House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage site surrounded by olive trees, then explore early Christian roots woven into the city’s theaters, basilicas, and homes.

Day 5 — Cappadocia’s Underground Cities & Cave Chapels

Descend into Cappadocia’s remarkable underground cities, once safe havens for early Christians. Visit cave chapels painted with centuries-old frescoes, then enjoy a soft-lit sunset over the surreal valleys.

8-DAY ITINERARY

Day 3 — Göbeklitepe: Origins of Worship

Walk among Göbeklitepe’s towering Neolithic stones—carved with animals, symbols, and mysteries. Stand in a place where humanity’s earliest spiritual impulses took shape more than 12,000 years ago.

Day 4 — Ararat Valley: Between Myth & Memory

Travel east toward the Ararat region, where biblical stories and Anatolian landscapes merge. Visit monasteries, hilltop viewpoints, and villages with traditions passed down for generations.

Day 1 & 2 — Sacred Şanlıurfa & Abrahamic Traditions

Explore the spiritual center of Urfa, visiting Abraham’s Pool, sacred mosques, desert springs, and centuries-old caravan routes. Feel the deep devotion of a city where faith shapes daily life, and dine on regional dishes tied to ancient tradition.

Day 5 & 6 — Ephesus & Mary’s House

Experience the spiritual layers of Ephesus—from basilicas to ancient meeting houses—and visit the serene House of the Virgin Mary. Walk pathways once used by early Christian communities and feel the quiet stillness of this revered site.

Day 7 & 8 — Cappadocia: Earthly & Divine

Explore underground cities carved as sanctuaries, cave churches painted with biblical scenes, and valleys glowing in soft light. End your journey with the option of a sunrise hot air balloon ride—a peaceful moment suspended between earth and sky.