Ephesus

Ephesus is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world, located near the town of Selcuk in western Turkey, about an hour south of İzmir. It was a major Greek and later Roman city, once home to over 200,000 people, and a key hub of trade, religion, and culture.

Why it’s famous:

• Library of Celsus: One of the most photographed ruins in Turkey — an impressive two-story Roman library facade that still stands.

• The Great Theatre: Seats 25,000 people and is still used occasionally for concerts. It’s where Saint Paul once preached.

• Temple of Artemis: Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, only a single column remains, but its legacy looms large.

• Terrace Houses: Luxurious Roman homes with mosaics, frescoes, and underfloor heating. Requires a separate ticket but worth it.

• Curetes Street: The main street lined with columns, fountains, statues, and remnants of shops and temples.

• Church of Mary: Considered one of the earliest churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

• Early Christian history: Ephesus is mentioned in the Bible and was a significant center of early Christianity.

The vibe: Open-air museum. You walk through a full-scale ancient city — it’s not just ruins, it’s urban archaeology.

Best time to visit: Spring (April–June) or fall (September–October). Go early in the day to avoid crowds and heat.