Ephesus
Capital of the Asian provinces of the Roman Empire, home to the Ephesians from the letters of St. Paul and a wonder of the ancient world.
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Explore Ephesus - Ancient Ruins, Roman History & Archaeology
Ephesus is famous for its well preserved ruins, Christian history as a Church of Revelation and the nearby House of the Virgin Mary. It was also home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Ephesus was an economic and political powerhouse but its spiritual and cultural legacy is also evident across civilizations thanks to this grand temple and the fact that the city is mentioned in the Holy Bible.
What Makes Ephesus Special?
The ruins of the city is located only 3 miles (5 kms) away from the coastline. The ancient site is surrounded by some small hills and the Bulbul (Nightingale) Mountain. Although the ruins are located away from the sea, the original city back in its time was located on the shore which gave it access to sea trading routes. This trade is what gave the city its main appeal as an important economic center of the Roman Empire. The bay where the harbor was located was silted up with the sediments brought in by the Kaystros (Kucuk Menderes) river, which is why the city now is away from the coast.
Ephesus was one of the biggest cities of the ancient world with a population of 250.000 people. As the capital of Asian provinces of the Roman Empire, many temples and monumental buildings were erected in the city. Besides the archaeological importance, it's close proximity to the house of The Virgin Mary or the city's historical connection to St. Paul also brings in those who are interested in Christian history.
The Temple of Artemis which was one of the "Seven Wonders of The Ancient World" was also built at this site. Unfortunately only one single column and the foundation remains of this great temple. This was not only a place of worship, but a place with its unique set of laws which even prevented the city officials from intervening with the temple business. It had the right to loan money just like a bank would and even offer shelter to people.
Location & Climate of Ephesus
Located on the western seaboard of Turkey which shares the Aegean Sea with Greece. The ancient city can easily be located on a road map as every printed map which shows ancient sites would include Ephesus. The site is to the south of Izmir, the third biggest city of Turkey, about 50 miles (80 kms) drive away. Izmir has an airport which has connections to all major cities in Turkey. If you are visiting the region with a cruise ship, then you would arrive at Kusadasi, which is about 15 miles (25 kms) away.
The region around Ephesus receives average rainfall during the winter months with temperatures at around 42-60 Fahrenheit (6-16 Celsius); and very hot summer months with temperatures between 85-105 Fahrenheit (30-40 Celsius). Considering the "marble roads" of Ephesus which become "superheated marble blocks" during the summer months, resulting in a microwave effect, it is a very good idea to take certain precautions to avoid dehydration.
