The jewel of the Eastern Mediterranean, Ephesus was founded in the 10th Century BC as a Greek settlement and gradually emerged as one of the largest trade ports in antiquity. However, the main draw to the city was the nearby Temple of the Goddess Artemis (completed around 550 BC), known as one of the "
Seven Wonders of the Ancient World". According to ancient historians, the edifice was four times larger than the Parthenon in Athens. Its splendor attracted many worshipers and pilgrims, strengthening the cult of the goddess and facilitating the flourishing of continuous trade. Over the centuries, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt a few times. A legend recalls a great fire in 356 BC-the night the temple was burned, was the very same night when Alexander the Great was born. Famously, the ancient Greek writer Plutarch remarked that the goddess Artemis was so preoccupied with ensuring the safe birth of Alexander, that she neglected saving her own temple.
It was a hot summer morning in September, when our Star Clipper ship docked right in the heart of the bustling resort town, pedestrian distance from shopping, restaurants, and cafes. Almost impatient, my husband and I stepped off the ship ready for another day full of adventures.
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| Turkish coffee and figs (the best we've ever had) |
I had arranged for an excursion to Ephesus through "Shore Excursions Group", a company offering excursions for cruise guests, but in smaller groups, and at lower rates compared to the ones offered through the cruise line. The representative of the company and our local Turkish guide Emre met us right outside of the port security point, holding a sign with our names on it. To our great surprise, it turned out to be a private tour because nobody else had reserved excursion at this time.
We spent over three hours at this magnificent archaeological site, having enough time for Turkish coffee and figs, courtesy of our knowledgeable guide, and immersing ourselves in these unique and memorable surroundings. If you happen to visit Ephesus as a part of cruise itinerary and you are history buff , we highly recommend to reserve a private tour/guide ahead of time.
A jewel to highlight of this ancient city, the Library of Celsus took our breath away with its intricate details, followed by the imposing Great Theater, the largest in Anatolia, once with capacity of 25,000 seats. We ended our tour, walking on the road which once welcomed the famous couple -- The Roman general Mark Antony and Cleopatra, Queen of Egypt.
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| The main road travelers used in antiquity to enter Ephesus and the Great Theater in the distance |
On our way back to Kusadasi, we visited a local carpet producing center. We were little hesitant but end up to be very positive and educational experience, and we learned about traditional hand-woven silk carpet techniques.
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| Silkworm cocoons are boiled to extract silk threads |
We spent the rest of the day savoring local flavors, shopping for souvenirs and enjoying a local belly dancing show on board
Star Clipper.
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| Lanterns for sale |
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