ephesus
DESCRIPTION
Ephesus was once a great city of the olden days and its fame was unquestionable. It was an ancient Greek city on the coast of Ionia (ancient name for Western Anatolia) and three kilometres away from modern day Selcuk in Izmir. The ancient establishment holds its ruins and fragments of the past which makes it a perfect spot for people who are interested in history and would like to travel in time.
Ephesus was used as a port city by the Greeks and Romans, which made it the most important trading centre in the Mediterranean region. Ephesus is a sanctuary for people to blush over the olden days in amusement and see how our ancestors have lived their lives. In order to preserve the ancient city, there are no accommodation services, but the journey isn’t hard at all! Either by coach or boat, we can easily make sure that the site is visited.
HISTORY
Throughout history, Ephesus withstood many attacks and sieges; it always changed hands between different conquerors. The city was at some point was under influence of Christian evangelism hence forth it remains an important site for Christians for their pilgrimage. The city had increased its fame once the Temple of Artemis was built in 550 B.C. (one of the seven wonder of the Ancient World). Other monuments also stand up to their majestic touch such as the Library of Celsus and a theatre that can guest 24,000 individuals. Once the Goths arrived, the city was destroyed and was never able to retrieve its former power.
WEATHER
Due to where it is settled and being relatively close to Izmir, the solar system works hard in Ephesus. It sees up to 300 days of sunny days with bright skies. The summers are dry and sunny but also steaming hot and humid due to the sea presence. The sea may let out some breeze, which will allow you to have a bit of a relaxing sensation, but the heat will shadow it short after. Its winters have been a question of curiosity. It can be cold but snowfall chances are very low.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Holders of UK, EU and US passports require visas. Visa’s must be obtained in advance, passengers need to obtain an e-visa prior to their arrival. This can be done online at https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ for approximately US$20. The visa is valid for a stay of up to three months (dependent on passport holder’s nationality). For a longer stay a visa from a Turkish Embassy is required.
No vaccination required
HOT TIPS
Ephesus can get very hot, very dry and has minimum level of shade. The white stones can also reflect heat making it unbearable. You need to take plenty of water. If you run out, you can buy some at the local store. Take a sip or traditional Turkish juices at cafes and bars to quench your first.
A sun hat, sunglasses and appropriate shoes are a must. The heat and sun will strike you, so it's best to be prepared. You will be doing a bit of walking and exploring and with the heat making the floor slippery, sandals are not a great idea.
Out of the city walls of Ephesus, there are more monuments that are worth seeing. The grand Ayasoluk Castle on Ayasoluk Hill, offers a beautiful view of the coast. The Basilica of St. John is the burial site John the Apostle. Nearby is the Isa Bey Mosque with its lush gardens and court.