Whether you are a first time traveller or a repeat visitor, Ephesus is one of the most important area to visit again and again during your Turkey tours, Visiting Ephesus offers a unique opportunity to step back in time, appreciate ancient civilizations, and understand the roots of modern culture and religion. For history enthusiasts, it is a must-see destination.
Ephesus holds significant historical, cultural, and archaeological importance for several reasons: Ephesus was one of the most important cities of the ancient world, serving as a major trade and cultural center. It was home to various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines, each leaving their mark on the city. The ruins of Ephesus showcase impressive architecture, including the iconic Library of Celsus, which was one of the largest libraries of the ancient world, and the Great Theatre, which could seat 25,000 people. These structures illustrate the advanced engineering and aesthetic values of the time.
Ephesus was an important center for early Christianity. The city is believed to be associated with several biblical figures, including the Apostle Paul and the Virgin Mary. The Basilica of St. John, built over the site of his tomb, is another significant religious landmark. The site offers insights into daily life in ancient times, with well-preserved streets, public baths, and homes that reflect the social and cultural intricacies of the era. Ephesus was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015, acknowledging its outstanding universal value and the need for preservation.
Natural Beauty: The surrounding region is also attractive, with its Mediterranean climate and picturesque landscapes, making it a pleasant destination if you want to entend your stay in some seaside resorts.
*We strictly recommend our client to book their tours as early as they can, due to domestic flight tickets on near dates would simply cost staggeringly expensive so this effects the price of package tour to increase.
Pick up from your Istanbul hotel and transfer to the airport for a domestic flight to Izmir. Upon your arrival at Izmir airport, our team will meet you and transfer you to the town of Selcuk, which takes 1 hour, and start the day trip in the ruins of Ephesus. Ephesus was an ancient and great commercial and port city that dates back to the 9th century BC, which had Hellenistic, ancient Roman, and finally Byzantine influences. During the time of the Romans, the population of Ephesus is said to have risen to 225,000. One reason for the successive declines of the city was marked by the retreat of the sea, or rather, by the natural sedimentation of the river that covered the port area, making it inoperative. Another reason was diseases such as malaria that affected a large part of the population, in addition to the significant battles fought in its surroundings to take over such an important city. Imagine a place that has so much to offer from ancient history. Ephesus features thousands of years of architectural monuments that have been carefully preserved and maintained. Some restored relics still display historical power and majesty. The ancient Roman capital of Asia Minor, Ephesus can be called the Pompeii of Turkey, as many civilizations lived here and fell into oblivion until it was rediscovered by archaeologists in the late 1800s. Visit major highlights and ruins like the Temple of Hadrian and the Library of Celsus, which is considered the most important image that looks more like a temple than a library. The theater had a capacity of almost 24,000 people during its time. If you would like to get a general idea of the site and the size of the theater, you can climb up the stairs and admire the landscape and the city’s magnitude from a bird’s eye view. Also, visit the House of Mother Mary, where it is believed she spent her last days after being brought here by St. John from Jerusalem. This site, located on a hill near Ephesus, still holds an important role in the history of humanity. On the way back to our hotel, we will stop by the Basilica of St. John, which was built on his tomb. At the end of the day, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Istanbul, followed by a transfer to your hotel in Istanbul. End of our services.
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