Ephesus was once a port that was used during ancient times. It used to be the second biggest Roman city. At one time it was the ancient world’s trade center and is now a busy tourist destination in Turkey. It is located about 11 miles away from Kusadasi and 4 miles from Selcuk. Around 1.5 million people visit this area each year. Many cruise ships dock at the port in Kusadasi and provide transportation from the port to Ephesus for their guests. A guided tour is the best way to see Ephesus and learn about its history. Most escorted Turkey tours include a visit to Ephesus.
What To See:
The Temples of Hadrian
The Temple of Hadrian is one of the best preserved structures in Ephesus. It was dedicated to Emperor Hadrian before 138 A.D. The outside of the temple has Corinthian columns as well as the goddess of victory. Inside the door of the temple there is a human figure carved into it and there are numerous other carvings throughout the temple.
Fountain of Trajan
The Fountain of Trajan was built in honor of Emperor Trajan around 104 C.E. A statue of Trajan stands on the façade which overlooks a pool that used to contain water.
The Great Theatre
The Great Theatre is the most impressive structure in Ephesus. It is right on the slope of Panayir Hill and not hard to find. The theatre contains 25,000 seats and used to be used for not only theatrical and musical productions, but for animal fights and gladiator exhibitions.
The Archaeological Museum of Ephesus
The Ephesus Archaeological Museum is not actually located in Ephesus, but in Selcuk. The museums contains many items that were found in Ephesus and are better off being displayed in a museum since they are so fragile and would most likely deteriorate if let in Ephesus. The items in this museums are placed in themed rooms. Some of these rooms include The Hall of Artemis and The Hall of the Fountain Relics.
The Celsus Library
One of the most beautiful sites in Ephesus is The Celsus Library. It was a monumental tomb that was built for Gaius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus in 117 A.D. The library had the capacity to hold over 12,000 scrolls which was considered to be a lot during that time. There are statues that symbolize valor, knowledge, wisdom and intelligence. Even though they are not the original statues, they are still very impressive.
Transportation
It’s pretty easy to get to Ephesus. It’s only a 2 mile walk from Selcuk to Ephesus. Many hotels have bikes that are available to borrow for the day. Pretty much the only way to walk around Ephesus is by foot since it is made up of ruins that are right at a hill’s bank. There are two points of entry/exit that are about 1 mile and a half apart. The entire area can be walked in about 2 hours with limited stops.
Availability
Visitors can visit the ruins from the middle of March until the end of October from 8 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. During other times of the year the ruins are open from 8 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.
Food
Visitors do have quite a few options when it comes to food. In both the towns of Selcuk and Kasadasi there are Turkish restaurants as well as fast food chains. Some of these restaurants serve vegetarian options as well. For those that plan on being in Ephesus for a full day, they should plan on packing a lunch.
Accommodations
Accommodations are not actually available in Ephesus itself. However, both the towns of Selcuk and Kusadasi do have lodging available for visitors. Because of the amount of visitors seeking lodging around Ephesus is high, making reservation in advance is recommended.
What To Wear
It can be very hot in Ephesus especially during the summer months. Visitors should wear light clothing as well as sneakers since they will be doing a lot of walking. It’s important to take plenty of water as well to keep from getting dehydrated.
