EPHESUS & Sights Around Selcuk
Temple Of Artemis
The Temple of Artemis is known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient world. It has been built in the areas of Ephesus, which have over the centuries turned into swamps. Today one can only see the ruins of the foundations of this marvelous construction of the Hellenistic Age, entirely made of marble and full of sculptured columns capitals and shafts.
Some of the most beautiful remaining parts of this temple are today exhibited in the London British Museum. The oldest remaining relics date back to the 6th century BC, when it was surrounded by 36 huge columns, later enlarged upon the orders of the Lydian King, Kreisos, during the 6th century BC. Most of the exhibits in the London British Museum belong to this period.
Ancient City of Ephesus
Explore the best preserved marble ruins of the ancient capital of Roman Asia, with its 25 000 seat Great Theatre. The second largest ancient city of the world! A city where over 200 000 people lived over 3000 years ago.
Ephesus, once the most important commercial centre of western Anatolia, is now one of the highlights of Turkey, awaiting exploring tourists. The city was established as a port on the mouth of the river Cayster. Being located on a strategic trade route in Anatolia, Ephesus quickly became one of the foremost cities in the world.
The city itself and the ruins are all on the side of a fertile valley. The extensive ruins including the theatre, library or gymnasium, create the special atmosphere of Ephesus and appeal to every visitor. Ephesus has been a "centre" throughout the ages. Once a trade centre of the ancient world, a religious centre of the early Christianity and today, a unique tourism centre proving all its history to the visitors through the world.
House Of Virgin Mary
It is a popular place of pilgrimage for Catholics, where Virgin Mary spent the remainder of her life, until she passed away. Located on top of Bulbul Mountain, it offers visitors a panoramic view over the town.
Isa Bey Mosque
Isa Bey Mosque is one of the most delicate examples of Seljukian architecture, situated below the Basilica of Saint John. It was constructed between the years of 1374 and 1375. An inscription from the God decorates the doorway.
The mosque was built by the master builder Ali, son of Mushimish al-Damishki. Crown-like doors from the Seljukian architectural style, later combine with the decoration elements of Ottoman style. The influential details including the plant motifs and the beautiful marble workmanship with the variety of glazed mosaics create the marvelous atmosphere of Isa Bey Mosque. Some parts of the mosque were repaired in 1934.
