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Ephesus (Efes) is one of the largest and most impressive ancient cities in Turkey, now an open-air archaeological museum. It was once home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In 2015, Ephesus was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

地点

Ephesus is in western Turkey, about an hour’s drive south of Izmir, near the popular Aegean resort Kusadasi. The nearest town is Selcuk, 4 km from the ruins, where the Ephesus Museum displays many archaeological finds.

如何到达那里

• From Izmir or Izmir Airport: Take a bus, train, or taxi to Selcuk (40–50 minutes).
• From Selcuk or Kusadasi: Use a dolmus (shared minibus) to the highway near the ruins, then walk about 10 minutes to the entrance. Tickets are inexpensive (~6 lira).

历史

Founded by Greek settlers from Athens about 3,000 years ago, Ephesus was named after the local Amazon Ephesia. Initially a Greek city with an Acropolis, Agora, and Forum, it became famous for the Temple of Artemis in the 6th century BC.

In the 2nd century BC, Ephesus came under Roman rule and flourished, building most of the surviving landmarks: Celsus Library, Great Theater, baths, and temples. With a population over 200,000, it became the largest city in the region, a Roman provincial capital, and a major trading port.

During the Byzantine period, the city gradually declined due to silting of the harbor, earthquakes, and eventual abandonment by the 11th century.

Temple of Artemis

The Temple of Artemis no longer exists except for one remaining column. It was famously burned in the 4th century BC by Herostratus. Some remnants are now in the British Museum.

游览小贴士

• Ephesus is sun-exposed, so bring hats and water, especially in summer.
• Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
• Walking from public transport requires about 10 minutes.
• Avoid bringing small children; the site is large and may be boring for them.

Entrance Fees (2019)

• Adult ticket: 72 lira
• Terraces: 36 lira
• Comprehensive ticket: 132 lira (includes Ephesus Museum and Basilica of St. John)
• Opening hours: 8:00–19:00 in summer, 8:30–17:00 in winter

Main Sights

• Via Arcadianu (Marble Street): Main thoroughfare with porticoes, leads to the Great Theater.
• Great Theater: Roman reconstruction, 25,000 capacity, 50 m diameter.
• Lower Agora: Marketplace with double colonnades and a water clock.
• Brothel: Contains one of the oldest known advertisements in the world.
• Terraces of the Rich: Residential houses with preserved mosaics (requires separate ticket).
• Celsus Library: 2nd-century Roman library, impressive façade.
• Kuretov Street: Hosts temples of Domitian and Hadrian, Nympheon of Trajan, Gate of Hercules, and the Odeon.
• Upper Agora: Ancient marketplace, law inscriptions, and small temples.
• Odeon: Small theater for 1,400 spectators, once the city senate seat.
• Church of the Virgin Mary: 5–7 minutes from the lower entrance.

Summary

Ephesus is a vast archaeological complex with well-preserved streets, theaters, and temples. It offers a vivid glimpse into ancient Greek and Roman urban life and is highly recommended for history enthusiasts.