Ephesus is the largest and best preserved ancient city in Turkey, and only second to Pompeii in all the Mediterranean. Claimed to be one of the most illustrious and important cities of ancient Greece, it was the capital of Rome's Province of Asia, with a population of 250,000. It was once the site of a former prosperous Roman seaport. Famous for its beauty, wealth and decadence as well as the magnificent Artemis temple, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

St. Paul lived in Ephesus for 3 years and later wrote the New testament book "Epistle (Letter) to the Ephesians" to his friends and associates there.

The city of Ephesus dates back to 1000 BC when it was built on the north slope of Mt Pion where the Cayster River flowed into the bay. When the silt filled the bay, it was moved to the southwest, on the slopes of Mt. Koressos, this is the site where the famous ruins of Ephesus are visited today.

One of the finest structures in Ephesus is the Celsus library at the end of Curates Street. It was built during the 2nd Century above the tomb of Celsus. The library was beautifully adorned and features four statues of female figures representing wisdom (Sophia), knowledge (Episteme), destiny (Ennoia), and virtue (Arete).

The Great Theatre was built during the 3rd Century, this is the largest theatre structure in Turkey with a capacity for over 25 000 people. The Ephesus theatre was the site of earlier gladiator shows, and later it hosted the historically important debate of christianity versus idolatry. In recent years it has hosted local festivals, plays and concerts including Sting and Pavarotti. Check with us for this years schedule of events.

We can arrange free transport and the loan of a detailed Ephesus guidebook to help you enjoy and learn about this magnificent site during your stay with us. We also recommend that you visit the Ephesus Museum here in the town of Selcuk, the museum houses an excellent display of sculptures and pieces from Ephesus and other archaelogical sites in the area.