A Time Travel to Antiquity Ancient City of Ephesus
Do you want to turn the dusty pages of history and walk the magnificent streets of the Roman Empire? Located in the Selçuk district of Izmir, the Ancient City of Ephesus offers exactly this magical experience. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ephesus is not just ruins; it is an open-air museum where you feel the spirit of the past in every step.
The Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre
The most iconic structure greeting you is undoubtedly the Library of Celsus. As the third-largest library of the Roman period, it captivates with its two-story façade and statues. Nearby lies the Great Theatre, one of the largest in the ancient world with a capacity of 24,000. It hosted not only plays but also gladiator fights and political assemblies. Its acoustics are so perfect that a whisper on stage can be heard from the top row.
Terrace Houses: Luxury of the Ancient Era
If you wonder how the aristocrats lived, the Terrace Houses (Yamaç Evler) will astonish you. These homes feature magnificent floor mosaics, wall frescoes, and even underfloor heating systems, showcasing the comfort of the Roman elite. They are like time capsules that have survived to the present day.
A Holy Center
Near the ancient city stands the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Additionally, the House of the Virgin Mary, a major pilgrimage site for Christians, is located on Nightingale Mountain (Bülbül Dağı). It is believed that Mary spent her final days in this humble stone house.
Walking down Marble Street, stepping on stones that still bear ancient wheel tracks, allows you to visualize the trade of the era. Ephesus is a treasure that carries the collective memory of humanity.