Ephesus Small Group Day Tour from Selcuk

Ephesus Small Group Day Tour from Selcuk

Step back thousands of years on this small-group guided tour of Ephesus from Selcuk. Start off in Selcuk, exploring the many ancient archeological sites, and then move on to Ephesus, once one of the most important cities in Asia Minor. Stroll among the millennia-old ruins, many of which have only been excavated in the last century. See the remains of the Temple of Artemis and visit the supposed house of the Virgin Mary before stopping by a famous 14th-century mosque.

After getting picked up at your hotel in Selcuk by your local guide, drive to the millennia-old city of Ephesus. Once a city of great importance in the Roman Empire, Ephesus boasts a miasma of marble-clad ruins, a sea of dilapidated ancient structures. Learn about the history of the old city, including the fact that 3,000 years ago it boasted up to 200,000 denizens. See the Celsius Library, the Great Theater, the Temple of Hadrian. 

At the amazing Temple Of Artemis, find out why this structure is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Now resting in swamp land, the foundations of the temple can still be clearly seen and you get a very clear impression of how majestic this temple once was. From what is still left you can see the beauty of the sculptured columns capitals and shafts.

Move from Greek and Roman history to Christian history as you stop by the supposed last residence of the Virgin Mary. Now a very important pilgrimage site for Catholics, the house attracts thousands of visitors throughout the year. Sitting upon the Bulbul Mountain, the location offers beautiful views over the below lying town of Selcuk and surrounding area.

Finally, visit Isabey Mosque, a brilliant example of the supreme Seljukian architecture. The mosque is a true classic of its era and what you see today in the beautifully carved out and decorated mosque showcases this architecture. Above the doorway you will find an inscription to God.

After the visit to the mosque, the tour concludes with a return to your hotel in Selcuk.