- Location and History
- Ephesus is located 160km southeast of Çeşme, near Selçuk
- Settlement traces back to 7th millennium BC at Cukurici Mound
- City was under Lydian control from 7th century BC
- Became Roman capital in 133 BC, one of largest cities in empire
- Declined during Byzantine era due to harbor silting
- Architectural Highlights
- Kouretes Street served as sacred ceremonial route
- Marble Road was sacred thoroughfare with chariot tracks
- Arcadiane Street featured monumental gates and shops
- State Agora measured 160x73 meters, largest in ancient world
- Odeon (Bouleuterion) seated 1,400 spectators
- Temple of Domitian built during Emperor Domitian's reign
- Public Facilities
- Scholastica Baths were largest in Ephesus
- Fountain of Trajan featured elaborate marble decoration
- Terrace Houses contained luxury villas and private basilicas
- City had extensive aqueduct system for water supply
- Many structures featured mosaics and statues
- Modern Preservation
- Site open daily 08:00-00:00
- Entry fee €40, combined ticket €65
- Excavations reveal well-preserved Roman Imperial period monuments
- Many structures partially restored and uncovered since 1960