Table of Contents
Ephesus, one of Turkey’s archaeological wonders along its Aegean coast, gives visitors the excellent opportunity to walk through the ruins of one of the ancient world’s greatest cities. A city that was at one time a capital of the Roman Empire, Ephesus was home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. Now, its wonderfully preserved remains, including broad avenues, gigantic temples, and breathtaking mosaics, transport visitors back to the past to experience the majesty of what was.
It is the simplest method of access to Ephesus via rental automobile because it provides smooth and convenient access to the ancient wonder. We can get comfortable and convenient traveling to and from Ephesus with Localrent, an auto rental aggregator.
The History of Ephesus: A City of Legends
The Rise of an Ancient Power
Founded in the 10th century BC by Greek colonists, Ephesus was a prosperous commercial city due to its location near the Aegean Sea. The Romans rendered it the capital of the province of Asia Minor and it boasted over 250,000 citizens — one of the biggest cities of the time.
The wealth and glory of the city were reflected in its imposing architecture, from the massive Library of Celsus to the massive Theater of Ephesus. Most renowned of them all, however, was the Temple of Artemis, a massive temple dedicated to the goddess of fertility and hunt.
Ephesus in the Roman Era
Ephesus was its wealthiest in the 1st and 2nd centuries AD, as a cultural and religious center. It was a significant early Christian center, and Saint John the Evangelist and Saint Paul preached there. Conquests, earthquakes, and the silting of the trade routes ultimately led to its abandonment, and it was abandoned by the 15th century.
Ephesus is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited sites by thousands of travelers who are ready to discover its rich heritage.
The Best Ruins to Visit in Ephesus
The Library of Celsus – A Marvel of Ancient Engineering
Ephesus’ most, if not the most, well-known landmark, the Library of Celsus, was built in the 2nd century AD as a public tomb for Roman governor Tiberius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus. Its imposing front, topped with enormous Corinthian columns and intricately carved figures, housed more than 12,000 scrolls at its height, one of the largest and most beautiful ancient libraries.
Why Visit?
- Breathtaking preservation – one of the most well-preserved ancient libraries.
- A breathtaking view of Roman engineering and architecture.
- A perfect shot, especially in the early morning when the light reveals its grandeur.
The Great Theatre of Ephesus – A Stage for the Ages
This massive amphitheater, which seated 25,000, was the center of entertainment, political oratory, and even early Christian sermons. Saint Paul himself preached here, sermonizing to the crowds about Christianity.
Highlights of the Great Theater
- Chilling acoustics — stand in the middle and hear your voice sound back.
- Impressive size, one of the largest theatres of the Roman Empire.
- Amazing view over the surrounding ruins from the top levels.
The Temple of Artemis – A Lost Wonder
Even though today there are only a few columns remaining, the Temple of Artemis was an impressive monument, four times as big as the Parthenon at Athens. Completed in 550 BC, it was among the finest temples of the ancient world.
What Remains Today?
- There remained a few columns, a reminder of what had been.
- A place surrounded by legend, once crowded with pilgrims from all across the Mediterranean.
The Marble Street and Curetes Street
Walking along Marble Street, an old street lined with columns and ruins, is a walk back in time. It leads between the Library of Celsus and the Great Theater, which in its prime must have been full of merchants, scholars, and actors.
What You’ll See Along the Way
- Ancient Roman baths and public toilets.
- Beautifully carved street signs, including one believed to be an advertisement for an ancient brothel.
- Complicated mosaics, which formerly decorated the homes of Ephesus’s wealthy citizens.
House of the Virgin Mary
Within walking distance of Ephesus, this simple stone house is where the mother of Jesus, Mary, is believed to have lived out the later years of her life. A Christian shrine, but also a peaceful place to sit and think.
Why Visit
- A deeply religious experience in peaceful surroundings.
- The chance to witness history and religious history.
- Overlooks the hills around with breathtaking views.
Tips for Visiting Ephesus
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ephesus is during spring (April–June) or autumn (September–November) when the weather is mild and there are no tourists.
What to Bring
- Comfortable footwear – the ancient city of Ephesus is very extensive with uneven terrain.
- Sun, hat, and sunscreen – in the city, the sun is out over the open spaces.
- Camera or phone – none of Ephesus is more scenic than another.
How to Get There
Ephesus is close to the town of Selçuk, 80 km from Izmir and 19 km from Kusadasi. Although tours are not done using buses, travel by hired car gives the option to see everything at your convenience. Localrent offers cheap but secure rentals so it is no trouble to include a visit to Ephesus along with other destinations nearby.
Walking Through History
Ephesus is not just a line of ruins — it is a gateway to the past, and each stone, column, and carving has its own story to share. From the grandeur of the Library of Celsus to the religious tranquility of the House of the Virgin Mary, each step in Ephesus is a journey along the path of the progress of millennia of human civilization.
For the traveler seeking authenticity, a car rental allows one to go further, not just to Ephesus but Turkey’s rich history. Car rental is easy with Localrent, and it offers a hassle-free and memorable trip through the marvels of the ancient world.