Lost in Time: Visit Ephesus

Visit Ephesus! Nestled in the heart of Turkey’s beautiful Izmir province, the ancient city of Ephesus stands as a magnificent testament to a bygone era. As a long-time resident of Izmir, I’ve had the privilege of exploring this well-preserved city on numerous occasions, each visit unraveling a new layer of its rich history and indelible charm. In today’s blog post, I’ll be sharing my personal experiences and insights into this awe-inspiring archaeological wonder, offering you an intimate glimpse into the past as we journey through the captivating ruins of the Ephesus archaeological site.

Unesco Word Heritage List -Visit Ephesus

I think visiting Ephesus Turkey is a must for anyone interested in history, architecture, and archaeology. This ancient city was once a thriving metropolis that played a significant role in shaping the Western world as we know it. From the Library of Celsus to the Great Theater, the ruins of Ephesus are a living testament to the genius and craftsmanship of the ancient Greeks and Romans.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings on the façade of the library, walk through the ancient streets and alleys, and stand in the same spot where gladiators once fought for glory. The sheer scale of the ruins is awe-inspiring, and the history behind them is nothing short of fascinating. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Turkiye, a trip to Ephesus is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

The ancient city of Ephesus, a gem of history and culture, proudly holds a place on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site List since 2015. This recognition is a testament to the city’s outstanding universal value, as it represents not only the architectural and artistic accomplishments of its time but also serves as a window into the rich tapestry of human history.

The inclusion on this esteemed list underscores the global significance of Ephesus and its role in shaping our understanding of the past. As a result, it further emphasizes the importance of preserving and showcasing this remarkable site for generations to come, allowing visitors from all corners of the world to immerse themselves in its enchanting stories and breathtaking beauty.

Izmir to Ephesus travel guide:

From Izmir Airport: The Havas Bus is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free and comfortable journey. Departing from Izmir Airport, the bus ride to Kusadasi takes you through picturesque landscapes and scenic routes, providing a glimpse of the region’s beauty. The buses are equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant ride. Once you arrive in Selcuk you can take a minibus to Ephesus.

By car: The most convenient way to reach Ephesus is by driving. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering a distance of around 84 kilometers. Simply follow the D565 highway from Izmir and then connect to the E87 highway towards Selçuk, where Ephesus is located. There’s a parking area near the entrance of the archaeological site for your convenience.

By train: Alternatively, you can take the train from Izmir’s Basmane Station to Selçuk Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with trains running frequently throughout the day. Upon arrival, you can either walk for 30 minutes or take a taxi to reach the entrance of Ephesus.

By bus: Regular buses operate from Izmir’s main bus station (Otogar) to Selçuk. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and buses typically run every hour. Once you reach Selçuk, you can either walk or take a taxi to the archaeological site.

Also, you can check daily guided tours from Izmir, Istanbul, or Antalya.

Exploring the Ruins of Ephesus:

You can easily spend a full day at Ephesus. I recommend, taking one of the guided Ephesus tours and starting your journey at the Upper Gate. To reach this starting point, hire one of the taxis or coaches (fayton) from the lower gate. The driver would navigate the scenic route, allowing you to soak in the picturesque landscape as you approach this ancient city. Along the way, don’t miss the opportunity to stop by the legendary “Seven Sleepers,” a fascinating site that tells the tale of seven young men who fell asleep for centuries while seeking refuge from religious persecution. As you continue towards the Upper Gate, anticipation builds, knowing that soon you’ll be stepping back in time and exploring the wonders that await within the hallowed grounds of Ephesus.

Curetes Street

Ephesus’ Curetes Street is a mesmerizing ancient thoroughfare that transports visitors back in time to the grandeur of the Roman era. As one of the main streets of Ephesus, Curetes Street was lined with imposing columns and adorned with intricate carvings, creating an atmosphere of splendor and prestige. Walking along this well-preserved stone-paved road, visitors can imagine the bustling activity that once filled the bustling marketplace and imagine the daily lives of the ancient residents. The street is flanked by various remarkable structures, including elegant fountains, statues, and well-preserved buildings, making it a captivating journey through history. At the end of the street lies the impressive Celsius Library, a testament to the intellectual prowess of the ancient world. Strolling down Curetes Street offers a glimpse into the magnificence of Ephesus and is a must-visit for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the captivating past of this extraordinary archaeological site.

The Library of Celsus:

The Library of Celsus, located in ancient Ephesus, was a repository of over 12,000 scrolls and one of the most impressive buildings in the Roman Empire. Constructed in the 2nd century CE, it was named after the city’s former Roman governor. Despite being built on a narrow lot between existing buildings, the design of the library creates the effect of monumental size, with a 21-meter wide courtyard paved in marble and nine wide marble steps leading up to a two-story gallery.

The Library of Celsus is considered an architectural marvel and is one of the only remaining examples of great libraries of the ancient world located in the Roman Empire. It was the third-largest library in the Greco-Roman world behind only those of Alexandria and Pergamum, and believed to have held around 12,000 scrolls.

The Great Theatre:

With a capacity to hold 25,000 spectators, this colossal theatre showcases the grandeur of ancient entertainment. The acoustics are still remarkable, and the structure is occasionally used for concerts and performances today.

The Great Theatre of Ephesus is a well-preserved and impressive structure that was built in Hellenistic times, originally by King Lysimachus. It was later reconstructed by the Romans between AD 41 and 117, incorporating original design elements such as the ingenious shape of the cavea, part of which was undercover. The Great Theatre of Ephesus is one of the largest ancient theaters in the world and could seat up to 25,000 spectators in its heyday.

The theater is located on the slope of Panayir (Pion) Hill, opposite Harbor Street, and is easily seen when entering from the south entrance to Ephesus. It is cut into the west slope of Mount Pion upon which the Acropolis was located.

Excavations in Ephesus have revealed grand monuments of the Roman Imperial period, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. The city of Ephesus comprises successive Hellenistic and Roman settlements founded on new locations that followed the coastline as it retreated westward.

Temple of Artemis:

Although only one column remains standing today, the Temple of Artemis was once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It’s worth visiting the site to imagine the scale and magnificence of this sacred temple.

The Temple of Artemis, also known as the Artemision, was a famous ancient temple located near the city of Ephesus in Turkey. According to Wikipedia, the temple was situated about 75 kilometers south of the modern-day port city of İzmir, and today it lies on the edge of the town of Selçuk. The sacred site at Ephesus was far older than the Artemision itself. The temple was constructed to honor the Greek goddess Artemis, who was honored with multiple titles, including the goddess of the moon, hunting, and the wild.

The temple was known not only for its enormous size, which was over 350 by 180 feet; approximately 110 by 55 meters but also for the magnificent works of art that adorned it. Unfortunately, the temple was destroyed by invading Goths in 262 CE and was never rebuilt. According to Ancient Origins, on the night Alexander the Great was born, an arsonist named Herostratus set fire to the temple and burned it down. Years later, Alexander the Great visited the town and offered to help pay the cost of rebuilding it if they would put his name on it, but the Ephesians refused.

Terrace Houses:

These beautifully preserved residential buildings provide a glimpse into the daily lives of Ephesus’s wealthiest inhabitants. The intricate mosaics and frescoes adorning the walls are an art lover’s dream.

The Terrace Houses, also known as the Houses of the Rich, are a collection of luxurious, well-preserved houses in Ephesus, Turkiye. These houses were discovered during excavations in the 1960s and are located on the hillside opposite the Hadrian Temple in Ephesus. The Terrace Houses were built during the 1st century CE and were home to wealthy and prominent citizens of Ephesus.

The houses are famous for their impressive architecture, intricate interior designs, and stunning mosaics. The Terrace Houses feature a unique heating system, an early form of central heating, which was known as the hypocaust system.

The Terrace Houses consists of six residential units, each with its own atrium, courtyard, and private bath. These houses were decorated with frescoes, and the floors were adorned with mosaics of various designs, colors, and styles. The Terrace Houses also contain evidence of early Christian art, including a series of frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Visitors can explore the Terrace Houses and get a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy citizens of Ephesus during the Roman period.

Today, the Terrace Houses in Ephesus is a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world. The site has been carefully restored, and visitors can walk through the houses and see the intricate details of the architecture and art. The Terrace Houses offer a unique insight into the daily lives of the wealthy citizens of Ephesus during the Roman period. Please note that the admission fee is not included in the Terrace Houses section, there will be an extra 170 ₺ fee (approx 10 USD) as of January 2023.

The Marble Road:

Last but not least, stroll along this stunning, marble-paved thoroughfare that once connected the Great Theatre to the Temple of Artemis, and imagine the bustling atmosphere of this ancient city.

The Marble Street of Ephesus was a prominent avenue that served as a vital thoroughfare within the ancient city. Stretching over 1 kilometer in length, it connected the Celsus Library and the Grand Theatre, two of the most important structures in Ephesus. Constructed in the 1st century CE, the street was aptly named for its elegant marble paving, which was adorned with intricate carvings and geometric patterns. Marble Street was not only visually stunning but also functional, as it was designed with a carefully planned drainage system to handle rainwater runoff.

Lined with impressive buildings, shops, and monuments, Marble Street served as a bustling center of social, economic, and political activity in the ancient city. It was also the site of religious processions, ceremonies, and public gatherings, making it an essential part of Ephesian life. Today, visitors to Ephesus can still walk along the remains of Marble Street, which has been partially restored to give a glimpse of its former grandeur. Exploring this historic avenue offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich cultural heritage of ancient Ephesus.

Don’t forget:

Ephesus is open 7 days a week, in the summer months (April to October), the site is open from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, while in the winter months (November to March), it is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. As of January 2023, admission is 400 ₺ (approx 21 USD). For ticket purchasing, and more info please visit the official website of the TC Ministery of Culture. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and carry water with you as you explore the vast archaeological site. Ephesus is a journey through history that will leave you with unforgettable memories of the ancient world’s splendor.

Ephesus Archaeological Museum

The Ephesus Archaeological Museum located in Selçuk, is a treasure trove of ancient wonders that beckon history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Stepping into the museum feels like embarking on a captivating journey through time, as it showcases a vast collection of artifacts unearthed from the nearby archaeological site of Ephesus. From intricately carved marble statues to delicate ceramics, the exhibits offer insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and artistic achievements of the civilizations that once thrived in this region.

To enhance your experience and fully grasp the significance of each display, hiring a knowledgeable tour guide is highly recommended for touring Ephesus Museum. Their expertise will unlock the stories behind the artifacts, the myths and legends of Ephesus, and the historical context that brings this ancient city back to life. Visiting the Ephesus Archaeological Museum with a tour guide is an enriching and enlightening experience that will leave you in awe of the fascinating history that lies within its walls.

Do you want to know more about Turkiye? You might like our blogpost “Ultimate Guide to an Epic Istanbul Layover Tour” and “Why Turkiye is the New Retirement Hotspot“

FAQ