Ephesus - Selcuk and Environment

Ephesus, which is among the most famous cities of the ancient eras, shelters the wealth of all Ionian culture. Ephesus was one of the largest cities in the world during the Roman Period, and was renowned for its significant intellectual activities. From the entrance at the Eastern gate of the city, there is the Eastern Agora, Odeon, the Temple of Domitianus, Polio Fountain, Trajan Fountain, Scolastica Bath, hillside houses, the Temple of Hadrianus, Celsus Library, Lower Agora, Marbled Street, Grand Theater, Arcadianus Avenue and the Church of the Virgin Mary. Near Ephesus is the house of the Virgin Mary. 

The nearby town of Seljuk is dominated by a Byzantine citadel which stands close to the 6th-century Basilica of St. John, supposedly built on the site of the apostle's tomb. The 14th-century Isa Bey Mosque, next to the basilica is accessed through its typical Seljuk portal. The Archaeological Museum houses an impressive collection of statues and other finds recovered during the excavations at Ephesus. The nearby Turkish Bath Museum, in a building from the 16th century, shows Turkish life at the hamam (bath). The Ephesus International Festival of Culture and Tourism is held annually in May.

Tradition has it that, after the death of Christ, John brought the Virgin Mary to Ephesus where she is said to have spent her last days in a small house (Meryemana Evi) built for her on Bulbuldagi (Mt. Koressos). Now a place of pilgrimage for Roman Catholics and a popular touristic site for all, the house has received the official sanction of the Vatican, and a commemoration ceremony is held every year on August 15th. 

Near Seljuk is a TCDD Open-air Steam Locomotives Museum displaying historical train cars in Camlik. Sirince is 9 km east of Seljuk. It is known for its traditional 19th-century village houses, some of which have been converted into guest- houses. Wine is produced in this small hillside Turkish village, which itself resembles an open-air museum. Eighteen km from Seljuk are winehouses, for tasting the wines.

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