Ephesus

Efes

One of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities in the eastern Mediterranean. Marble streets, a great theater, Terrace Houses and temples form a complete picture of an ancient city. It was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 2015.

Ephesus was originally founded by Ionian Greeks. In the Roman period it was the capital of the province of Asia, and its population once exceeded 200,000, making it one of the most prosperous port cities of the Mediterranean. It later declined as its harbor silted up. The ruins stretch along a valley between two hills. Visitors usually enter through the Upper Gate (Magnesian Gate, also called the South Gate) and walk downhill, visiting in order: the State Agora, the Odeon (music hall) and the Town Hall. Along Curetes Street, paved with marble, you'll find the Temple of Hadrian (with Medusa and Tyche reliefs on its arch) and the Trajan Fountain. At the end of the street stands the Library of Celsus. Continue along the marble street to the Great Theatre, which could hold about 24,000 people and where Saint Paul once preached. Finally, walk along Harbour Street and exit through the Lower Gate (North Gate). The Terrace Houses are elite residences with many wall paintings and mosaic floors. They require a separate ticket, and they are highly recommended. The site has almost no shade, so arrive when it opens at 8 a.m. Plan 3 to 4 hours for the visit, and wear non-slip shoes and a hat. Admission is priced in euros, subject to the official website of Turkey's Ministry of Culture and Tourism. It is often combined with a visit to the Ephesus Museum in Selçuk. From Selçuk, a taxi to the Upper or Lower Gate takes about 10 minutes, and you can arrange a taxi to pick you up at the other end.

Opening hours

Summer approx. 08:00–19:00; winter approx. 08:00–17:30 (check official website)

World Heritage · Ancient Rome · Ancient Greece

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Places to eat nearby

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