Blog

There are places where history is simply told — and there are places where history can be felt. Ephesus, one of the most important ancient cities in the world, belongs to the second category. Located on the western coast of Turkey, near the town of Selcuk and close to Sirince village, Ephesus offers a journey through thousands of years of civilization, architecture, and human stories.

A City of Civilizations

Ephesus was founded around the 10th century BC and was ruled by Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans over time. It was once a major trade center and one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire — some historians estimate that up to 250,000 people lived here. Today, only ruins remain, but they are remarkably well-preserved, making it possible to imagine what life was like thousands of years ago.

Must-See Highlights

Walking through Ephesus feels almost like walking through an open-air museum. Some of the most impressive landmarks include:

• The Library of Celsus: Perhaps the most famous symbol of Ephesus. Its two-story facade is one of the best-preserved structures from the ancient world. Built in the 2nd century AD, it once held thousands of scrolls.
• The Great Theater: With a capacity of about 25,000 people, this theater was used for music performances, political speeches, and even gladiator fights.
• Marble Street: A beautifully preserved main street that connected important parts of the city. It still shows signs of wheel marks from ancient carts.
• Temple of Artemis: Once considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Only a few columns remain today, but its historical importance continues to attract visitors.

A Touch of Everyday Life

Ephesus is impressive for its size, but also for its small details. Public baths, ancient toilets, mosaics, and shops give us a glimpse into everyday life. Archaeologists believe that Ephesus was one of the first cities to have a sewer system and street lighting — quite advanced for its time.

As you walk through the ruins, you might notice inscriptions on stones, symbols on walls, or even small carvings left behind by local artisans. These details help bring the ancient world to life, making it feel a little less distant.

Tips for Visiting

• Best Time: Early morning is ideal — fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
• Bring Water & Sun Protection: It can get quite hot, especially in summer.
• Guided Tours: Highly recommended. A local guide can turn stones into stories.
• Tickets: Ephesus has separate entrance fees for special areas like the Terrace Houses, but they are worth it for those interested in daily Roman life.

Nearby Places

Ephesus is often combined with other nearby attractions:

• Şirince Village – A peaceful hillside village known for local wine and stone houses.
• The House of Virgin Mary – A pilgrimage site believed to be Mary’s last residence.
• Selçuk Museum – A great place to see statues and artifacts found in the ruins.

A Journey You Won’t Forget

What makes Ephesus unforgettable isn’t just its scale — it’s the sensation of walking where ancient people once walked, standing where speeches were made, or imagining the sound of applause in the Great Theater. Even after leaving, many travelers say they still picture the marble streets in their minds.

Ephesus is more than an archaeological site. It’s a reminder of how civilizations rise, fall, and leave behind their stories. And if you're curious enough to listen, the stones of Ephesus still have something to say.

Contact us and let the adventure begin!