Saint John: Basilica of St. John

Life and Martyrdom

• c. 6 AD – 30 AD: John, son of Zebedee and James’ brother, was a key disciple, often called the “Beloved Disciple,” and authored the Gospel of John.
• 30–100 AD: After Jesus’ death, John worked in Jerusalem, then settled in Ephesus, where he died of natural causes around 100 AD, the only apostle not martyred, according to tradition.

Burial and Tomb Development

• c. 100 AD: John was buried on Ayasuluk Hill in Ephesus, in a simple tomb venerated by early Christians.
• 4th Century: A church was built over the site, replaced in 535–565 AD by Emperor Justinian’s grand Basilica of St. John.
• 14th Century: The basilica fell into ruin after Turkish conquests, but the tomb remained a focal point.

Current Status

Excavations uncovered a 4th-century tomb beneath the basilica’s altar, presumed to be John’s, though his remains are missing—possibly lost or relocated.

Related Post

Apostles Tomb

• Saint Bartholomew: Basilica of San Bartolomeo all’Isola
• Saint Philip: Hierapolis
• Saint James the Greater: Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
• Saint Andrew: Cathedral of Saint Andrew
• Saint Peter: St. Peter’s Basilica