Visiting Turkey? Take the time to visit Ephesus, the ruins of an ancient Greek city that housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, among other breathtaking buildings.
Getting There
This site is easily accessed by the Adnan Menderes Airport or from the sea port of Kusadasi. Mediterranean cruises will often take this route as it fits in easily with Greek and Italian ports (this is the way I came).
Tip! – Haggle or you won’t get a good price. The best places to haggle are found lining the streets where cruise ships dock, you’ll be able to identify them by the handsome men standing out front trying to invite you in.
Kusadasi
The sea port town of Kusadasi shows relics of Greek, Roman, and Turkish ancestry, along with having some of the best shopping you’ll find on the trips.
Warning for women – You’re going to be stared at, cat called, etc. I was a freshman in High School when I visited, and all the male attention was overwhelming.
If you haven’t learn to haggle, figure it out QUICK. Luckily, my grandparents were with me and were able to help me out with prices.
Tip! – Look at Turkish rugs/carpets, leather work, and other handmade crafts because they are of the highest quality and beautiful!
Ephesus
Ephesus is a popular tourist attraction due to its famous ruins, historical significance, and close proximity to the coast.
The site, as I mentioned before, housed one of the ancient wonders of the world – the Temple of Artemis. Unfortunately the temple is in ruins, but there is still a lot to see! There are theaters, temples, fountains and aqueducts, etc – you’ll be satisfied.
Perhaps the most impressive building to visit is the Library of Celsus. It too was originally in ruins but has been carefully reconstructed with most of its original pieces.
My awkward freshman self is blocking part of the remains of the library, but you can still see the gorgeous detail of the magnificent structure. Access to the ruins are nearly unlimited. You’re able to walk through the structures and step on the same steps where the ancient builders and worshippers stood.
Background History
It was built in the 10 century by Greeks and thrived until it came under Roman rule. Afterwards the cities treasures were plundered and many statues and ancient temples destroyed. It remained in such a state until the Emperor Augustus declared it the capital of the west-Asian countries Rome had conquered.
Passing through the hands of the Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and Byzantines (technically an extension of the Roman Empire to start), the ruins of Ephesus show a complicated mix of these cultures.
An important site for Christianity and the Apostles, the church at Ephesus was renowned throughout the word and was the rumored site where the Book of John was written, as it is one of the churches of Asia to be mentioned in the Book of Revelation. There is even a rumor that Ephesus was one of the last places the Virgin Mary lived before her death.
Fun Fact! – Ephesus also has connections to Egypt. Ptolemy XII Auletes (Cleopatra’s father… by some sources) was welcomed to Ephesus as Rome worked to restore him to his throne. Additionally, Marc Antony and Cleopatra assembled their navy in Ephesus as they waited to battle Octavius (Emperor Augustus).
The site itself was beautiful and a wealth of historical knowledge. I highly recommend going with a tour guide, as they will provide you with this knowledge, as well as how the site currently is holding up through the ages and what the future holds.
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Any questions? Contact me or comment below!
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