Ephesus Turkey; (The ancient city of Ephesus) continues to exist as a center that attracts the attention of the whole world with its history. But what is it that makes it so important? Why does it continue to be a place where many local and foreign tourists meet every year?

In this article, we will take a closer look at this historical center hosted by Turkey. Where is the Ancient City of Ephesus, what kind of history does it have, what structures does it contain?

You can find answers to many of your questions about Ephesus Turkey in this article. Take your notes before visiting the Ephesus Ancient City, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage list!

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Ephesus Ancient City

Where is Ancient City of Ephesus?

Ephesus Turkey; The Ancient City of Ephesus is located in the city of Izmir in the Aegean region of Turkey. Ephesus is located 3 km southwest of Selçuk district, which is about an hour away from İzmir city centre.

History of Ancient City of Ephesus

Ephesus Turkey; Ephesus Ancient City, a port city between east and west, dates back to 8600 BC. The feature that makes the region so important is that it has hosted many civilizations throughout history. Among the civilizations it has hosted are the Romans, the Byzantine Empire, the Ottoman Empire and many Anatolian principalities.

Being a port city, its location on important trade routes in history and its fertile lands make the region both active and important.

About Ancient City of Ephesus

Ephesus Turkey; The city, which is rumored to have been founded by female warriors, is said to have taken its name from Arzawa, which translates as the City of the Queen Mother. The region, which developed and strengthened with the Roman period, became the most important trade center of the period.

Since it is in such an important location, many civilizations throughout history have been looking for ways to own it. Ephesus, which was conquered by the Turks in the 1300s, suffered a great destruction due to Mongol attacks and started to lose its former importance over time.

Ephesus Ancient City

The 4 Most Important Features of Ephesus Turkey

  • The fact that Christianity is accepted as a pilgrimage center and has been a religious center for centuries.
  • Establishment of the Temple of Artemis, which is considered one of the seven wonders of the world.
  • At the end of the 1st century AD, with a population of approximately 250,000, it received the titles of the second capital of the Roman Empire and the capital of the Province of Asia.
  • Making a difference in architecture by constructing all avenues and streets perpendicular to each other.

Historical Buildings in the Ancient City of Ephesus

The Temple of Artemis

Known as the first marble temple in the world, the Temple of Artemis is one of the must-see places in Izmir Ephesus Ancient City. This temple, built for the goddess Artemis, is among the symbols of the region.

Celsus Library

The Celsus Library, built during the Roman period, is known as the third largest library of the Ancient Age.

Ancient Theater

Considered the largest ancient theater in the world, the Ephesus Antique Theater is used for concerts and performances today. At the time it was built, it had become one of the most important means of livelihood by hosting gladiator fights.

Ephesus Turkey

Agora Square

Various official buildings were lined up around the Agora square, which was the meeting and meeting area of ​​the city. Therefore, it was in a very active position. In addition, the Ephesus Water Palace is located in the Agora square.

Temple of Domitian

The temple, built for the Roman Emperor Domitian, is known as the first pagan temple built for a mortal in history. It is known that the temple began to be used as a monastery after the acceptance of Christianity.

Curetes Street

Curetes Street, which is accepted as the first main street in İzmir Ephesus Antique City, covers an area of ​​280 meters. The street takes its name from the Kuret priests who were tasked with guarding the sacred fire. It is said that statues were built on both sides of the street where shops and workshops were located during the Byzantine Empire.

Heracles Gate

When talking about the Curetes Street, it is impossible not to mention the Heracles Gate. Located on Curetes Street, this gate was built to separate pedestrian and vehicle traffic. It has Herakles reliefs on it. It takes its name from these reliefs.

Ephesus Turkey; The Ancient City of Ephesus is located in the city of Izmir in the Aegean region of Turkey. Ephesus is located 3 km southwest of Selçuk district, which is about an hour away from İzmir city centre.

When Should You Go to the Ephesus Turkey?

Ephesus Turkey; The Ancient City of Ephesus is open to visitors throughout the year, but our recommendation is not to go in the summer heat. If your visit coincides with the summer period, be sure to be there early in the morning. In this way, you will not be exposed to too much heat and crowds. If you are going to visit in winter, do not forget to take thick clothes because Ephesus is usually a little cooler than the city during the winter months.

Ephesus Ancient City

Ancient City of Ephesus Entrance Fee

Ephesus Turkey; The entrance fee to the Ancient City of Ephesus is 150 TL (8 €). The entrance fee to Efes Yamaç Evler is 65 TL (3.5 €). You can enter the Ancient City of Ephesus with a museum card. If you went to the ancient city of Ephesus with your private car, there is a paid car park in the vicinity where you can park your car.

Individuals who want to enter the ancient city of Ephesus enter here for a certain fee. However, the Ancient City of Ephesus is free for some people. These:

  • Students with a student ID
  • Those who have a teacher ID,
  • People under the age of 18,
  • People over 65 years old,
  • Those who have a museum card.

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Ephesus Ancient City Visiting Hours

Summer Term (1 April – 1 October)

Opening Time: 08:00, Closing Time: 19:00

Winter Term (1 October – 1 April)

Opening Time: 08:30, Closing Time: 18:00

Ephesus, which is open every day, is only closed until noon on the first day of religious holidays.

How to Get to the Ancient City of Ephesus Turkey?

Ephesus Turkey; If you are coming by plane, you have to land at Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport and take Kusadasi Havas. You can get off at Kuğulu Park next to Selçuk State Hospital and take a taxi.

If you are coming with your own vehicle;

  • Approximately 535 kilometers from Istanbul,
  • About 650 kilometers from Ankara,
  • About 82 kilometers from Izmir.
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