About the Cave of the Seven Sleepers

The Cave of the Seven Sleepers is a cave located near the ancient city of Ephesus, which holds significant importance in both Islamic and Christian beliefs. While it is known as the Cave of Ahsab-ı Kehf in Islamic faith, it is associated with the legend of the Seven Sleepers in Christian world. The entrance to the cave can be reached from the asphalt road that turns to the east from Vedius Gymnasium.

The Legend of the Seven Sleepers

The legend of the Seven Sleepers is narrated with different details in various sources. According to the legend, seven Christian youths, living during the reign of Emperor Decius in the year around 250 AD, refuse to offer sacrifices to the deified emperor and face the threat of death. In response to this, the youths take refuge in the cave and the emperor orders the entrance of the cave to be sealed with a wall in order to capture them. After a while, when the young men wake up from their sleep, they realize that years have passed and that Christianity has become widespread in the Roman Empire. The Seven Sleepers decide to go back to sleep and never wake up again.

The Discovery of the Cave of the Seven Sleepers

The discovery of the Cave of the Seven Sleepers took place in later periods. It is known that a church was built on top of the cave and many graves were found here. During excavations carried out in the past, inscriptions related to the Seven Sleepers were found on the walls of the church and on tombstones. This indicates that the cave turned into a legendary church. In the vicinity of the cave, there is also an important burial area of the ancient city of Ephesus.

How to Get There?

To reach the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, you need to follow the asphalt road that turns to the east from Vedius Gymnasium, located near the ancient city of Ephesus. You can easily reach the cave by daily tours and private vehicles. There are directions and signs on the road, which will facilitate your transportation to the cave.