We’re going back to the 10th Century BC this week, or at least that’s when our destination was built.

Ephesus is well known as the home of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis. You can learn more about this side in our Wonders of the World E-book which is the first reward of our referral program (mentioned below). The city includes plenty of other interesting sites and may also be familiar because it of it’s Biblical significance.

The Book of Ephesians in the Bible is a letter from the apostle Paul to the church in Ephesus, which is also referenced in the Book of Revelation.

The city was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times like many ancient places. You can go all the way back to the Neolithic period to find inhabitants in the area, but the Ionian Greeks were the ones to establish the colony.

The Battle of Ephesus took place in 498 BC, and the Ionians were defeated handily. For about the next twenty centuries, Ephesus experienced various levels of prosperity and conflict. There was the Classical Roman and the Byzantine Roman period before Ottoman rule began in 1390 AD. This period lasted for a much shorter period than the others and by the 15h Century, everyone had left.

It feels to us like it was an abrupt ending to such a historically significant city. There are still so many structures which are in relatively good shape, particularly the Great Theater (see below). The acoustics in that place were amazing. How they were able to build something so detailed and effective blew our mind. It was inspiring to say the least.

The ancient city of Ephesus is the obvious place to begin, and give yourself plenty of time because there is so much to see! Walk along the marble streets where people traveled nearly 2,000 years ago and imagine this city when it was filled with merchants, scholars, worshippers, and travelers from across the Roman Empire.

One of the most recognizable sights is the Library of Celsus. Its beautiful two-story façade has become an icon of Ephesus, but the building was once much more than a pretty backdrop for photos. Built in the second century, the library stored thousands of scrolls and was also the burial place of the Roman official Celsus. Standing in front of it is one of those moments when you can hardly believe something so ancient is still standing before you.

Another unforgettable stop is the Great Theatre, a massive amphitheatre that could hold approximately 25,000 people. It was used for performances and public events, and it is also especially meaningful for those interested in Biblical history. The sheer size of the theatre makes it easy to imagine the crowds that once gathered there.

As you explore, keep an eye out for Curetes Street, the Temple of Hadrian, the ancient agoras, Roman baths, and the beautifully preserved Terrace Houses, where wealthy residents once lived. Ephesus was a bustling and sophisticated city, and these ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into everyday life during the Roman Empire.

Ephesus holds a very special place in the story of early Christianity. It is one of the Seven Churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation, and the Apostle Paul spent significant time ministering in Ephesus. The city became an important center for the early Christian church, and its connection to the New Testament makes walking through its streets an especially meaningful experience.

As you stand inside the Great Theatre, you can think about the events described in the Book of Acts, when a disturbance broke out in Ephesus connected to the worship of Artemis. The ancient city was home to the famous Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Very little of the temple remains today, but its history helps explain why Ephesus was such an important religious center long before Christianity arrived.

Just a short distance from the ancient city is one of the area's most meaningful pilgrimage sites, the House of the Virgin Mary. Christian tradition holds that the Apostle John brought Mary to the Ephesus area and that this was her final home. The peaceful stone structure sits in the hills above Ephesus and welcomes pilgrims and visitors from around the world. It is also a place of significance for both Christians and Muslims.

The site is surrounded by a quiet, reflective atmosphere that feels very different from the bustling streets of ancient Ephesus. Whether you visit for spiritual reasons or simply to learn more about its remarkable history and tradition, it is a memorable stop to add to your itinerary.

Another important stop is the Basilica of St. John in nearby Selçuk. According to Christian tradition, the Apostle John spent his later years in the Ephesus area and was buried here. A basilica was later built over the site traditionally believed to be his grave, making it an important destination for Christian pilgrims and history lovers alike.

The ruins sit on Ayasuluk Hill and offer a fascinating look at the importance Ephesus and the surrounding area held for the early Christian world. Take time to explore the grounds and imagine the generations of pilgrims who have visited this sacred place before you.

Refer a friend using your referral link at the bottom of this email so they can see it too. In addition, you’ll get a copy of our “Wonders of the World” eBook if it's your first referral.

The closest major airport is İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport, and Ephesus is easily reached from İzmir by road. Many visitors stay in nearby Selçuk, which makes a convenient home base for visiting the ancient city, the Basilica of St. John, and the House of the Virgin Mary. Ephesus is also a popular day trip from İzmir.

Depending on your itinerary, you can reach the area by rental car, private transfer, train, bus, or organized tour. If you are visiting as part of a cruise itinerary, Ephesus is also commonly reached from the port city of Kuşadası.

Once you enter the ancient city, you will be exploring almost entirely on foot, so comfortable shoes are a must! The site is large and takes several hours to explore properly. Many visitors choose to hire a guide or join a guided tour to better understand the stories behind the ruins.

A car, taxi, private driver, or organized tour can help you travel between Ephesus, the House of the Virgin Mary, and the Basilica of St. John. Public transportation is also available for some routes, but having transportation arranged can make it easier to visit several sites in one day.

Akanthus Hotel Ephesus - buffet breakfast included, beach shuttle service available

Celsus Boutique Hotel - breakfast included, three minute walk from the Basilica of St. John

Ephesus Retreat - stunning retreat up in the mountains, local cuisine breakfast included

Turkish food is an adventure all its own! Start with a traditional Turkish breakfast, which often includes cheeses, olives, fresh bread, eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, and jams. For lunch or dinner, try dishes such as kebabs, köfte, or flavorful Turkish meze.

Be sure to save room for something sweet. Baklava, Turkish delight, and a strong cup of Turkish coffee are all wonderful treats to enjoy during your trip. And if you are exploring the nearby town of Selçuk, take time to find a local restaurant and enjoy a leisurely meal after a day of walking through history.

Comfortable walking shoes should be at the top of your packing list! You will be walking over ancient stone streets and spending plenty of time outdoors. Pack lightweight clothing for warm days, along with sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

Bring a reusable water bottle and a small day bag to carry your essentials. A portable phone charger is also helpful because you will probably take more photos than you expect! If you are visiting during the cooler months, a light jacket or layers can make your day more comfortable.

*Ephesus is so much more than an ancient city filled with ruins. It is a place where Roman history, Biblical stories, early Christianity, and centuries of human life all come together. One moment you can be standing before the magnificent Library of Celsus, and the next you can be sitting in the same theatre where events from the Book of Acts unfolded.

Here are a few of our affiliate links to help you when in Ephesis or traveling in general. It’s no extra cost to you and helps us keep this email free for everyone. 😀

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob