Located on the western coast of modern-day Turkey near the town of Selçuk, Ephesus (Efes) is one of the best-preserved and most famous ancient cities in the Mediterranean. Steeped in history and mythology, this ancient Greek and later Roman city offers an unparalleled glimpse into the past, from its monumental temples and theaters to its bustling marketplaces and grand streets. A visit to Ephesus is a must for history lovers and curious travelers alike, offering the chance to step back in time and explore a city that was once one of the most important in the ancient world.
The Origins of Ephesus
Founded in the 10th century BCE by Greek colonists, Ephesus grew to prominence under Lydian, Greek, and later Roman rule, becoming a major port and cultural hub. Ephesus was famous for its grand temple to Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and its strategic location along key trade routes. By the 1st century BCE, Ephesus had become the capital of Roman Asia Minor, making it one of the largest and most important cities in the Roman Empire, second only to Rome itself.
In its heyday, Ephesus was home to as many as 250,000 inhabitants and played a key role in commerce, politics, and culture. The city is also significant in early Christian history, as it was visited by St. Paul, and later, St. John and the Virgin Mary are believed to have spent their last years in the region.
Ephesus Ruins and Highlights
Ephesus is packed with architectural marvels and archaeological treasures that reflect the grandeur of ancient Greek and Roman cities. Some of its most impressive sites are must-see landmarks for anyone visiting the ancient ruins.
The Library of Celsus
The Library of Celsus is undoubtedly one of the most famous and photographed landmarks in Ephesus. Built in 117 CE, this stunning two-story structure once held over 12,000 scrolls, making it one of the largest libraries in the ancient world. The library was built as a monumental tomb for Tiberius Julius Celsus, a Roman senator, and its facade is an extraordinary example of Roman architecture, featuring ornate columns, detailed sculptures, and grand doorways.
While the library’s interior no longer survives, the striking facade, with its mixture of Corinthian and Ionic columns, stands proudly as a symbol of the city’s intellectual legacy. Visitors today can marvel at the detailed carvings and inscriptions, which represent the classical ideals of wisdom, virtue, and knowledge.
The Great Theatre
Another unmissable feature of Ephesus is the Great Theatre, which could hold up to 25,000 spectators and was the largest theater in Asia Minor. Built into the slope of Mount Pion, the theater hosted everything from gladiatorial contests to public speeches and dramatic performances.
The acoustics of the theater are still impressive today, and you can easily imagine the roar of ancient crowds or listen to modern performances that occasionally take place at this spectacular venue. Climb to the top of the seating area for a panoramic view of the entire site, including the Arcadian Way, the main road that once connected the harbor to the city center.
The Temple of Artemis
Once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis was a massive structure dedicated to the goddess of fertility and the hunt. Unfortunately, only a single column remains of this once-great temple, as it was destroyed several times by invasions and natural disasters. Despite its ruins, the site still carries a mystical aura, and its historical significance makes it an essential stop on any tour of Ephesus.
The Terrace Houses
For a unique glimpse into the daily lives of Ephesus’s wealthy citizens, visit the Terrace Houses. These well-preserved homes were built for the city’s elite, featuring intricate mosaics and frescoes, and even underfloor heating. The homes are located on a hillside overlooking the Curetes Street, and their restoration offers visitors a chance to see how the affluent citizens of Ephesus lived.
The mosaics are particularly beautiful, with geometric designs, mythological scenes, and elaborate patterns that showcase the wealth and artistic tastes of the time. Walking through these houses gives a sense of the lavish lifestyles enjoyed by the Ephesus elite.
The Temple of Hadrian
One of the most beautifully preserved buildings in Ephesus, the Temple of Hadrian is dedicated to the Roman Emperor Hadrian, who visited the city in 128 CE. Its intricate archway, adorned with reliefs of mythological figures, remains one of the most impressive examples of Roman architecture in the city. The arch features depictions of the goddess Tyche, personifying the fortune of the city, and a series of mythological scenes depicting the founding of Ephesus.
Interesting Facts
Ephesus holds a special place in early Christianity. The city was visited by St. Paul, who preached in the Great Theatre and wrote the Epistle to the Ephesians, found in the New Testament. Ephesus is also believed to be the final resting place of St. John the Apostle, and the House of the Virgin Mary, located nearby, is a popular pilgrimage site.
At its peak, Ephesus was one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire, with a population exceeding 250,000. It was the capital of Roman Asia, serving as a major hub for commerce, culture, and governance. Its bustling harbor and extensive road network connected it to other major cities across the empire.
Despite its grandeur, Ephesus went into decline after its harbor silted up, making the city less accessible to maritime trade. Over time, the once-thriving city was abandoned, and its grand structures were left to the elements until modern archaeological efforts brought it back to light.
The excavations of Ephesus began in the 19th century and have continued to this day. Archaeologists have uncovered only a fraction of the ancient city, with much more still buried beneath the earth, offering a tantalizing glimpse of its hidden treasures.
Tips for Visiting
Visiting Ephesus is a remarkable experience, but some careful planning will help you get the most out of your trip. Here’s what you need to know:
Best Time to Visit
Ephesus can get extremely hot in the summer months, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). The site is largely open, with little shade, so if you’re visiting between June and September, it’s best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat and large tour groups.
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer more comfortable weather, with fewer crowds, making these the ideal times to visit.
How to Get to Ephesus
Ephesus is located near the town of Selçuk, which is just 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) from the ruins. Buses from Selçuk regularly transport visitors to the site, and taxis are also available for a quick ride. If you’re staying in Kusadasi, a popular port city for cruise ships, Ephesus is just a 30-minute drive away.
Selçuk is easily accessible by train from major Turkish cities like Izmir. From Selçuk, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach the ancient city.
Tickets
There is a modest entrance fee to visit the main ruins of Ephesus, with additional tickets required for the Terrace Houses. To save time, consider purchasing your tickets online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Children under 8 typically enjoy free entry, while students and seniors may benefit from discounted rates.
What to Bring
Bring plenty of water, as there are few places to refill your bottle once inside the site, and the Turkish sun can be unforgiving. The terrain at Ephesus is uneven, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so sturdy footwear is essential. With limited shade, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and applying sunscreen throughout the day.
Guided Tour – Make the Most of Your Visit
While you can explore Ephesus on your own, hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour can greatly enhance your experience. A knowledgeable guide can provide fascinating insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the ruins, bringing the ancient city to life.
Nearby attractions
While Ephesus is the main attraction, the surrounding area is filled with fascinating landmarks that enhance your visit. The House of the Virgin Mary, a peaceful pilgrimage site, and the Basilica of St. John in nearby Selçuk are key religious destinations, with the latter offering panoramic views from Ayasuluk Fortress. The Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, now stands as a single column, symbolizing the city’s past grandeur. For additional context, the Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selçuk houses artifacts from the ancient city. A short drive away, the charming Sirince Village offers fruit wines and scenic views, while Pamucak Beach provides a peaceful spot to relax by the Aegean Sea.