Ephesus
17/08/2023
Ephesus does not exist! (Does Ephesus exist?)
When you hear that the ancient city of Ephesus, which has been open to visitors since the beginning of the 20th century, actually does not exist, it naturally leaves people astonished. In this article that will dispel the question marks in your mind, you will learn almost everything you need to know about Ephesus, and all that will be left is to visit this enchanting city.
Ephesus, with its fascinating history spanning thousands of years that we explore in our Aegean tours, has been home to some of the most famous figures of the ancient world, such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Cleopatra. The city is also believed to have been visited by the Apostle Paul and is associated with the final days of the Virgin Mary, who is believed to have spent her last days on a nearby hill in the House of the Virgin Mary. In addition to being a port city facilitating trade between Greece, Asia Minor, and the Middle East, Ephesus played an essential role in early Christianity, one of Asia's Seven Churches.
While examining the ruins in Ephesus, even if the temperature is not too high, the ruins, mostly made of marble, can reflect the sunlight and cause our cheeks to redden. Therefore, remember to bring your sunscreen with you.
According to the details of the descriptions, an Ephesus Tour can last approximately 1 to 4 hours. It's important to remember that there is no designated area for breaks within Ephesus. Your guide will surely remind you, but it's good to remember to take a break if needed at the entrance of the Ephesus Ancient City, just in case.
By the way, wandering Ephesus Ancient City by car is impossible. The tours, lasting from 1 to 4 hours, are conducted on foot. If the weather permits, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes.
The Museum Pass, valid in over 300 different museums and archaeological sites in Turkey, is also good at Ephesus Ancient City.
The Great Theater: The Magnificent Stage of the Ancient World
The Great Theater of Ephesus Ancient City is a magnificent example of ancient Roman architecture, exuding a rich history that has stood the test of time. During ancient times, it served as a center where people gathered for music, plays, gladiator contests, and theatrical performances. People from all around the Mediterranean region would come to witness this grand theater.
Even today, the theater remains remarkably well-preserved, inviting visitors to examine its impressive architecture closely. The acoustics of this theater are still so remarkable that even the slightest whisper on the stage can be heard clearly by the 25,000-seat audience. It is a historic structure and a paradise for nature enthusiasts, as it is right in the heart of stunning rural scenery. The theater offers its visitors a combination of the beauty of the ancient era and the splendor of nature.
The Enchanting Jewel of the Ancient World: Celsus Library
The interior of the Celsus Library, one of the most important libraries of the ancient world, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, including the statues representing the four virtues (wisdom, honesty, virtue, and courage), contains a spacious reading room designed with shelves for 12,000 scrolls, conference halls and more.
An awe-inspiring work that has fascinated throughout history: The Temple of Artemis
Although unfortunately in ruins today, the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, allows visitors to see its foundations and the remaining columns.
Colorful Lives Taking Refuge on the Hillsides: Terrace Houses
The Terrace Houses, which were the homes of affluent residents of Ephesus, offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of the city's elite.
Temple of Hadrian
The temple dedicated to the Roman Emperor Hadrian, who visited the city in 129 AD, was constructed in the early 2nd century AD along the town's main street. Adorned with numerous reliefs depicting the mythical story of the founding of Ephesus Ancient City, it stands out as a must-visit place.
The Temple of Hestia (Vesta) is dedicated to the guardian of the sacred fire.
The Temple of Hestia held significant importance in the ancient city of Ephesus. The temple was dedicated to Hestia, one of the Twelve Olympian Gods and the protector of the hearth and sacred fire. The Ephesians believed that this temple safeguarded the holy fire that symbolized their city's security. The Temple of Hestia showcases impressive Roman architecture and carries traces of mythological stories and ancient beliefs.
Trajan's Fountain
The fountain at Curetes Street and Marble Street intersection is dedicated to the Roman Emperor Trajan and was constructed in the 2nd century AD. Later on, it became an important water source for the city. One of the notable features of this fountain is a small figurine of a globe placed under the emperor's foot, symbolizing his power. Interestingly, some sources suggest that Galileo Galilei, although credited as the first person to proclaim the Earth is round, found this ancient structure depicting the Earth in a spherical shape quite intriguing.
Where health, cleanliness, and socialization come together: Roman Baths
Roman Baths can be considered as the third element that ensured the public order of the ordinary people, in addition to bread and circuses. These ancient structures are also known as the first places where centrally heated systems, still in use today, were implemented. Roman Baths served both health and social purposes. Bath visits were prevalent in ancient Roman society, providing spaces for people to come together and socialize.
One popular stop for faith tourism is the House of the Virgin Mary.
This house, believed to be the residence of Saint John and the Virgin Mary following the crucifixion of Jesus, was discovered in the 19th century by a German nun named Anne Catherine. She had never visited Turkey but was informed about the house and its location in her dreams. The discovery was later confirmed by archaeologists in the 20th century. The house has become a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics and Muslims. It features a small chapel where visitors can participate in rituals and prayers and a fountain believed to possess healing properties.
The paradise is hidden among the historical and natural beauties of the Aegean: Şirince Village.
Originally named Kırkınca, meaning 'Forty Springs' in Turkish, the village became a popular tourist destination in recent years due to its well-preserved architecture. Greeks initially settled in the village, and later, in 1923, Turks settled there. According to the story, they gave the village the name "Çirkince" (Ugly) to deter foreigners from coming. However, its beauty was rediscovered and renamed "Şirince" (Charming) once again. The village has a long history of winemaking, and visitors can taste and shop for local wines. Situated on a hill surrounded by fruit orchards, vineyards, and olive groves, Şirince offers a picturesque setting.
Bonus Content: The First Ad in Human History
Ephesus, with its commercial and stage agoras, Harbor and Marble Streets, House of Love, Domitian, and Isis Temples, among many other stops, is also where the first advertisement in human history was found.
Based on archaeological remains, we can say that initially, Ephesus was established in the location where the Selçuk Castle is now, then near the Artemis Temple, and finally in the current site that we visit today. So, Ephesus does not exist! It has long been destroyed, and we are seeing the third Ephesus.
Trajan's Fountain
The fountain at Curetes Street and Marble Street intersection is dedicated to the Roman Emperor Trajan and was constructed in the 2nd century AD. Later on, it became an important water source for the city. One of the notable features of this fountain is a small figurine of a globe placed under the emperor's foot, symbolizing his power. Interestingly, some sources suggest that Galileo Galilei, although credited as the first person to proclaim the Earth is round, found this ancient structure depicting the Earth in a spherical shape quite intriguing.
Where health, cleanliness, and socialization come together: Roman Baths
Roman Baths can be considered as the third element that ensured the public order of the ordinary people, in addition to bread and circuses. These ancient structures are also known as the first places where centrally heated systems, still in use today, were implemented. Roman Baths served both health and social purposes. Bath visits were prevalent in ancient Roman society, providing spaces for people to come together and socialize.
One popular stop for faith tourism is the House of the Virgin Mary.
This house, believed to be the residence of Saint John and the Virgin Mary following the crucifixion of Jesus, was discovered in the 19th century by a German nun named Anne Catherine. She had never visited Turkey but was informed about the house and its location in her dreams. The discovery was later confirmed by archaeologists in the 20th century. The house has become a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics and Muslims. It features a small chapel where visitors can participate in rituals and prayers and a fountain believed to possess healing properties.
The paradise is hidden among the historical and natural beauties of the Aegean: Şirince Village.
Originally named Kırkınca, meaning 'Forty Springs' in Turkish, the village became a popular tourist destination in recent years due to its well-preserved architecture. Greeks initially settled in the village, and later, in 1923, Turks settled there. According to the story, they gave the village the name "Çirkince" (Ugly) to deter foreigners from coming. However, its beauty was rediscovered and renamed "Şirince" (Charming) once again. The village has a long history of winemaking, and visitors can taste and shop for local wines. Situated on a hill surrounded by fruit orchards, vineyards, and olive groves, Şirince offers a picturesque setting.
Bonus Content: The First Ad in Human History
Ephesus, with its commercial and stage agoras, Harbor and Marble Streets, House of Love, Domitian, and Isis Temples, among many other stops, is also where the first advertisement in human history was found.
Based on archaeological remains, we can say that initially, Ephesus was established in the location where the Selçuk Castle is now, then near the Artemis Temple, and finally in the current site that we visit today. So, Ephesus does not exist! It has long been destroyed, and we are seeing the third Ephesus.
