Ephesus (which is modern Selcuk )
Ephesus is one of the most stunning remains of the Greek and Roman Empire, the ancient city of Ephesus and the Library of Celsus, can be found in Selcuk, a small town just a few kilometers off the coast of the historical Aegean Sea.
In Selcuk, you can still see the third-largest Roman library, the Library of Celsus, which was built in 110 AD and is still standing.
History of Ephesus
Ephesus is an ancient city that played a significant role in the ancient Mediterranean region. Before becoming a part of the Roman Empire and the Roman Republic, it was a significant Greek settlement. It was important for trade because it was a port city. It also had a particularly big and big library for the time. Because its ruins are still standing, Ephesus is an important archaeological site today. The primary definition that many people have of Ephesus is as a modern tourist destination and UNESCO world heritage site.
Where is Ephesus?
The city of Ephesus is on the shores of the Aegean Sea, close to the Selcuk. The closest major city is Izmir. The ancient city is about 500 km from istanbul
How to get to Ephesus?
You can travel about 5 hours by bus. The best way to go by plain. There are many flights to Izmir from many major cities in Turkey. Traveling by the train is another populer way to go to izmir.
Where to stay in Ephesus?
Selcuk is a charming little town three kilometers from Ephesus. It has a lot of inns, pleasant cafés and bars. you can stay at the Paris Hotel, a budget-friendly hotel. It is the only decent hotel that offers single or double rooms for 21 Euros and is very close to the Otogar (Main Bus Terminal). The room had a private bathroom, a balcony, free, working wireless for internet access, and a quiet air conditioner that also worked as an electric heater.
Where to eat in Ephesus and Selcuk ?
There are a lot of good restaurants in Selcuk. Here, I’d like to recommend Mekan Efes Restaurant, The food is delicious and big. it is worth visiting and testing their food and wine.
How much to visit Ephesus?
Ephesus opening hours: You can visit Ephesus from 8 am to 8 pm
Note: Last entry is 30 minutes before closing each day, but you need at least 2 hours to explore
Ephesus entrance fee is 200 lira. Audio guide or tour will cost extra.
Things To Do In Selcuk And Ephesus
The Library of Celsus
I can tell you right now that many of the places on this list will include Ephesus because the ancient Greek city of Ephesus is probably one of the main reasons you are in Selcuk, Turkey. The Library of Celsus is a popular tourist destination in Ephesus.
When the Roman Empire ruled the region in 110 AD, they constructed the Library of Celsus, an architectural marvel that serves as an example of what Roman libraries were like.
The library is thought to have been the third-largest in the Roman world when it was built, behind only Alexandria and Pergamum. It was said to have more than a thousand scrolls when it was destroyed by fire.
Ephesus Ancient Theatre
When you visit Ephesus, you must also visit to another impressive building. One of the first large structures you’ll see upon entering Ephesus from the southern entrance is the amphitheater, which was built on a hillside.
That is pretty impressive, it was built almost 2,000 years ago and has a width of 140 meters, the seats could reach 30 meters and hold more than 20,000 people. The fact that this well-preserved semi-circle theater can still be seen today demonstrates how influential the Romans were and how adept they were at building massive structures.
The Terrace Houses of Ephesus
There is ongoing excavation and preservation of buried ancient houses and villas within the Terrace Houses. We can still make out the kind of decor they had in their homes and the color of paint they used to paint their walls, giving us an insight into their day-to-day lives.
You will be required to pay in order to gain access to the area because the restoration is still ongoing. It only costs 45 TRY per person, but I believe it was well worth it, especially for a history enthusiast. If you want to visit the Terrace Houses, you’ll need to leave some time because the Terrace Houses close 30 minutes before Ephesus does.
The Temple Of Artemis
Before the Romans swept through the region and continued to expand into the second century BC, it was thought that the temple was initially constructed in the sixth century BC. The temple is all that is left of it, with the exception of a few Greek-style columns that are dispersed throughout a swamp or flatland.
I think it’s definitely worth a visit because it’s close to the city center. In addition, entering the Temple of Artemis is free of charge. Additionally, you will have a fantastic view of Ayasoluk Castle.
Must visit land of fruit wine
Sirince is a wonderful village, about 7 kilometers from Selcuk. It’s a lovely hilltop village with a great market where most of the goods are made and grown locally. However, the village is most well-known not only for its grape wines but also for many times of fruit vines. They use every fruit to make wine.
More place to visit in Selcuk
The Cave of Seven Sleepers, Virgin Mary’s House, St.Johns Basilica, Isabey Mosque and Selcuk-Ephesus Museum
