Ephesus is the ancient city of Artemis in Turkey. The ancient city of Ephesus in Turkey: description and history
A city that is definitely worth a visit if you come to rest in Turkey. This ancient city is Ephesus. Ephesus is the most visited attraction in Turkey, as well as the second most important ancient city in the Mediterranean after Italy.
Ephesus Turkey, city of Ephesus
Ephesus is an ancient city located on the western coast of Turkey, near the mouth of the Small Menderes River. The city of Ephesus is famous all over the world thanks to the Temple of Artemis - one of the seven wonders of the world. Getting to Ephesus is not difficult. It is best to come to Selcuk and stay here for a couple of days to better see the sights of Ephesus, since it is impossible to do this in one day. Some monuments can be reached on foot, dolmushi and taxis run from the bus station to all others.
A bit of history
The first settlements on the territory of Ephesus date back to the Neolithic period (early 9500 BC), as evidenced by the excavations of the barrows of Arvalia and Kukurichi. There are also settlements of early bronze age(beginning 3500 - 3300 BC), and more recently a cemetery was found that dates back to the Mycenaean era (1500 - 1400 BC). Throughout the history of its existence, Ephesus has been repeatedly subjected to cruel raids, during which there was significant destruction, and was also influenced by various eras and cultures. It was the Roman period that left a big imprint in Ephesus, quite a lot of architectural monuments have been preserved. Arab robberies of the 7th - 8th centuries led the city into a severe decline, and by the beginning of the 14th century only a small village. Ephesus was finally abandoned in the 15th century. 
Ephesus Attractions
Ephesus has many historical monuments especially the Roman era. Library of Celsius - preserved two-tier facade, decorated with columns The library was built in the period 114 - 135 years of our era. The Odeon is a semicircular structure, often called the Maly Theatre. Judging by the inscription on the theater, it was built in 150 AD and was designed for 1400 seats. Agora - refers to the Roman era, once it was a center of trading activity, where people came from all over the Roman Empire. 
Theater - considered one of the three monuments in this archaeological zone which are best preserved to this day. The capacity of the theater is approximately 24,000 - 25,000 spectators, the entire hall rises to a maximum of 30 meters above the stage. Temple of Hadrian - was built in 135 AD and consists of two central columns that support the arch - this is all that was once preserved from the tympanum. Also preserved in the center of the podium, on which stood a statue dedicated to Emperor Hadrian.
On opposite side from the temple of Hadrian there is an architectural complex, which is called "Houses on the Hillside", facing Kuretov Street. These houses were mainly inhabited by the wealthy strata of society, so there is another name "Houses of the rich". All houses are located so that each house also serves as a terrace for the next house. One of the most popular houses is the House of Restyle II, built in the 1st century AD, richly decorated with decorations. Almost all rooms in the houses have mosaic floors and numerous frescoes for painting. 
Basilica of St. John - was built in the VI century under Justinian. Public House - located on the opposite side of the Celsius Library. An underground tunnel led from the library to the Brothel, supposedly so that husbands would deceive their wives, saying that they were going to the library, while they themselves secretly went to the Brothel. But many scholars do not agree with this, they argue that the Public Library was residential building a very wealthy family. 
Kuretov Street - stretched along the Library of Celsius and the Gate of Hercules to the Agora. The look that has survived to this day, the street acquired in the period of the 4th - 5th centuries, during the reconstruction after a strong earthquake. It is a paving of marble and other natural stones, which are perfectly combined with antique buildings. There are columns, pedestals, ruins of residential buildings, podiums, capitals, statues, friezes, as well as the remains of trading shops. On the street is a marble slab on which the laws of Ephesus were engraved. On this and other streets, pits were dug, which were covered with bars in order to put those convicted of murder or rape there, and everyone who passed by had the right to spit into the pit, thus condemnation was expressed. 
Temple of Artemis at Ephesus
Pritanium - in ancient times this was the name of the municipality, clerical services were located here, as well as banquets and festive receptions were held. Near Prytania is the Temple of Hestia, in which the sacred fire was always burning. This temple dates back to the 3rd century BC. Temple of Artemis - all that has survived from the temple to this day is one inconspicuous surviving column. This column was discovered during excavations in the 1870s. Some minor finds are in the British Museum and in a museum in Istanbul.
The location of the monuments is clearly visible on the map, so you can make a convenient route for yourself. 
1. Ruins of Ephesus 2. House of the Virgin Mary 3. Cave of the Seven Sleeping Youths 4. Ephesus Airfield 5. Temple of Artemis 6. Gendarmerie 7. Isa Bay Mosque 8. Church of St. Police Headquarters 13. Municipal Swimming Pool 14. City Hospital 15. Tourist Police Office 16. Archaeological Museum 17. Tourist Information Office 18. Bus Station 19. City Hall 20. City Hall 21. Turkish bath 22. Railway station 23. Shirince Village 24. Port of Ancient Ephesus 25. Bird Paradise Reserve 26. Pamucak Beach
But it was an article Greek island. And the ruins of the city of Ephesus are located in Turkey.
The ancient metropolis of Ephesus is several thousand years old. Naturally, at the dawn of its existence, the name of the city was different. But settlements in these places existed in the Neolithic era, that is, tens of thousands of years ago. The city was located on the seashore, which means it stood at the crossroads trade routes. This allowed the city to develop and become one of the largest metropolitan areas antiquities. And that ruined the city - the departed sea cut off Ephesus from trade, and the city gradually fell into disrepair. But let's not get ahead of ourselves.
Now the city is located in Turkey, near the city of Selcuk:
Wikimapia has enough detailed map the ancient metropolis of Ephesus with marked sights:
According to legend, Androclus, the son of the Athenian ruler Codras, received an order from the Delphic oracle to found a new city. A place for a new city was to be indicated to him by fire, fish and a wild boar. Androcles went in search of "signs" along the coast of the Aegean Sea and landed on the shores of a beautiful bay. Just at this time, local fishermen were frying fish. From the spark that flew out of the fire, a bush caught fire, from which a disturbed boar jumped out. This is where the city was founded. The wild boar became a symbol of the city, where a monument was erected to him. During the construction of the city, Androclus had to meet with a warlike Amazon tribe, one of which, Ephesia (which translates as desired ), he fell in love. The city was named after her. Later, almost all Amazons became the wives of the Greek settlers.
So the ancient metropolis of Ephesus got its name because of love 🙂
According to those who have been here:
Ephesus is a bright city, surprisingly large, quite well preserved for its age. At one time, it was one of the most famous and most beautiful cities of the Roman Empire, and indeed of all of Europe in general. Inside the empire, it was the second most important city after Rome, and outside it was also known as one of the major ports that time. Everything was here, from great beautiful structures to elaborate plumbing, a public toilet and a public library. Probably, living here in those days was considered a rare success.
The exact date of the founding of the city is unknown. People lived in this area 10,000 years ago. The Mycenaean Greeks lived in these places 1500 BC, and the Hellenic colony was founded 1000 BC. For most of the city's existence, it was ruled by tyrants. The townspeople periodically raised uprisings against their tyrannical kings, and the council tried to lead the city. However, the ancient metropolis of Ephesus reached its greatest prosperity when it was ruled by the iron hand of a sole ruler.
Ephesus has experienced ups and downs throughout its history. Recessions were usually caused by external enemies (Cimmerians, Goths, Persians, Romans, etc.), as well as uprisings. The rises occurred when the city was allowed to trade (for which it, in fact, was created), and also did not take too high taxes.
Under Roman rule (which stabilized in 27 AD, the city became the de facto capital of the Roman province of Asia, which occupied the western half of Asia Minor. The city began to develop rapidly, and over time became one of the largest in the empire, second only to Rome itself. On the first and second century AD, the city flourished, the population of which was estimated at 400-500 thousand people.During these years, the famous Library of Celsus and a huge theater were built, accommodating up to 25 thousand spectators.In Ephesus there were several large baths and one of the most developed systems of aqueducts, which included, in addition to the four main aqueducts, many smaller structures.
However, after about 200 years, the city was attacked by the Goths. And from that time began a period of decline. The population gradually left following the receding sea, and those who remained gradually died out from diseases - since the city was located in a swampy area. A thousand years later, the city was completely abandoned, and the entire population moved to the neighboring city of Selcuk, which still exists today.
Ephesus has preserved many sights. Let's go through some of them virtually.
Let's start with the visiting card of Ephesus - the library of Celsius. The Library of Celsius was built during the Imperial era, during the reign of Hadrian, to the design of the architect Tiberius Julius Aquili, who wished to dedicate it to his father. Construction began in 114 AD. e. and was completed in 135 AD. e. already the heirs of Tiberius Julius Aquila, who bequeathed a large amount of funds for the purchase of books and the maintenance of the library. In the 2nd half of the 3rd c. During the invasion of the Goths, the interior of the building was completely destroyed by fire, which spared the facade of the building.
The two-tier facade, decorated with columns, looks like a theatrical scenery. The columns of the lower tier, which stand on the podium of the central staircase of nine steps, grouped in pairs in four rows and crowned with the capitals of Corinth.
The columns of the upper tier are smaller. Triangular and semicircular tympanums crown the columns of the three central pairs. On the lower floor behind the staged colonnade one can see three portals framed by the finest ornament imitating a relief frieze. Above the portals are three huge window openings.
The traditional entrance to Ephesus is through the former port, located below, at the very slope of the hill on which the city lies. Logically, it would be necessary to enter the city from there, and then gradually go up. But the heat and natural human laziness do their job: many tourists prefer to enter the city from above, and only then slowly go down to the former port. They say that what we see in Ephesus now is only a fifth of what it was before. Numerous excavations are being carried out on all sides of the city, and on its "modern" outskirts you can see many ancient ruins found. All the most valuable, of course, is taken to the local museum. For some reason, I remember from what I saw at the excavation site a large number of the remains of ancient pipes are parts of an ancient water supply system that ran through the entire city, supplying almost every house with water:
Then we'll take a look at the Odeon. The Odeon is a semi-circular structure, also known as the Little Theater, which stands on a hillside to the north of the Agora. Judging by the inscription, it was built in 150 AD. e. Publius Vedius Anthony. The original purpose of the odeon was the bouleuterium, the seat of the City Senate. The first indoor building, designed for 1400 seats, was used alternately: either for meetings of the Senate, or for theatrical performances.
The next attraction of the ancient metropolis of Ephesus on our way is the Agora, the ancient market.
The ruins of the Agora belong to the Romanesque buildings of the Roman Empire, most likely built during the reign of the emperors Augustus and Claudius. The Agora, which was finally built up under Theodosius (4th century), was decorated with a double colonnade of a portico, under which there were trading rows.
It was the center of trading activity, where merchants from all over the Empire gathered. There was also a slave market and meetings were held on occasions of religious and secular holidays. To the north of the Agora are the ruins of the colonnade of the Basilica, built during the Augustan dynasty.
Another interesting attraction is the Temple of Emperor Hadrian. So, from the school history course, you probably know that the emperors in the Roman Empire were considered equal to the gods. So it is not unusual that one of the emperors sponsored the construction of a temple named after himself.
The inscription engraved on the architrave (supporting horizontal beam) of the temple testifies to the date of its construction - about 138 AD. e. - a little-known architect Quintilius, who dedicated the temple to Emperor Hadrian. In front of the monumental entrance to the main part of the temple, pedestals rise from the four statues that once adorned the temple.
Two central columns support a light, delicate arch, all that remains of the original triangular inner gable (front of the roof) that once crowned the building. The ornament of the arch, as it were, continues the motif of the friezes, which run in a single line along the cornice; in the center of the arch is a bust of Tyche (the patron goddess of the city). Tyche is the goddess of luck, in ancient Rome Fortune became her counterpart.
The horizontal beams of the portals are richly decorated with antique ornaments. Above the main portal, which leads to the central part of the temple, there is a semicircular lunette (a semicircle of an arch above the entrance), where against the background of a sophisticated interweaving of flowers and acanthus leaves, a female figure is depicted, which resembles ancient images of Medusa.
In the middle of the main part of the temple, you can see part of the original podium that once supported the statue of the adored Emperor Hadrian.
Now let's move from the temple to the amphitheater. The amphitheater has come down to us in good condition and is rightfully considered one of the best preserved monuments of the past in this archaeological zone.
Like all buildings of that time, the Ephesian theater is divided into three sections: the skene (including the proscenium), the orchestra (a round platform where the choir performed) and the kavea (the section of the hall for spectators).
The capacity of the theater is about 24,000 - 25,000 seats.
The hall rose 30 meters in relation to the stage and ended with a portico to improve the acoustics of the entire ensemble.
During the day on the stage of the theater, up to 50 gladiator fights were held between themselves and with animals.
And finally, the most popular local attraction is the public toilet. It used to be a favorite meeting place. The male population of the city liked to sit on the pots near the babbling fountain and talk about life, women and politics. At the same time, tap water carried away all waste products away.
The public toilet was only open to men.
In general, apparently, Ephesus is very interesting and you can see a lot of new and unexpected things.
Thus, the ancient metropolis of Ephesus is a really beautiful city.
According to Wikipedia and http://marina-pavlova.livejournal.com/170849.html
The city of Ephesus is one of the few ancient cities that have been restored during archaeological sites. And although today it no longer looks as majestic as it was thousands of years ago, its architecture deserves attention, and crowds of tourists seek to look behind a piece of one of the wonders of the world - the Temple of Artemis.
Historical milestones of the city of Ephesus
During archaeological excavations on the territory of Ephesus, traces of settlements dated back to 9500 BC were found. e. Tools from the Bronze Age have also been found, and more recently, scientists have reported the discovery of an entire cemetery with burials dating back to 1500-1400 BC. e. The city of Ephesus gradually grew and developed, so it is not surprising that it played an important role in history. Previously, it stood on the seashore and was a key port in which trade was conducted. 
The Roman Empire had a strong influence on the city, which is especially noticeable in the surviving architectural monuments. In the 7th-8th centuries, the city of Ephesus was subjected to constant attacks from the Arab tribes, as a result of which most of it was plundered and destroyed. Besides sea ​​waters more and more moved away from the coast, why the city ceased to be a port. By the 14th century, from the once key center, ancient Ephesus turned into a village, and in the next century it completely became deserted.
Attractions that have survived to the present
The most famous place to visit is the Temple of Artemis, although nothing remains of it. Previously, he was a real wonder of the world, about which legends were composed. There are also references to it in biblical writings. 
As a result of archaeological excavations, only the column from the famous landmark was restored, but even it is worth taking a look to appreciate the scope of ancient buildings and pay tribute to the goddess of fertility. 
Among other historical monuments most often visited are:
- Theater;
- Agora;
- Brothel;
- Hillside houses or Rich people's houses;
- house of Peristil II;
- Basilica of St. John;
- Kuretov street.
Most of the places mentioned are partially destroyed, but thanks to the ongoing restoration work, they manage to be maintained in the form that any tourist can admire. In every stucco and carving, the spirit of antiquity is felt. 
You can visit the museum with exhibits obtained during excavations. On excursions, they will not only lead you through the most beautiful streets before forgotten city, but they will tell Interesting Facts associated with Ephesus.
Useful for tourists
For those who want to know where the ancient city of Ephesus is located, it is worth staying in Selcuk for a few days. This small settlement on the territory of modern Turkey is located closest to the ancient city, which cannot be bypassed in one day. 
You can get and move around it on foot or by taxi. The beauties of Ephesus are so diverse that any photo taken will become a real masterpiece, because the history of the city is deeply rooted in the past, each of the eras of which has left its mark.
According to the will of the Pergamum king Attala III. Ephesus became the capital of the province of Asia. For its improvement, large sums of money were spent, the city grew and developed. Trade flourished here, the city market occupied an area of ​​7 hectares. According to Philostratus, the city was famous for its love of dancing, games and entertainment. Science and literature developed fruitfully.
I-II centuries became the heyday for Ephesus. The famous library of Celsus, baths and aqueducts were built, the Greek theater was rebuilt. Via Arcadiana went from the theater to the port - the main street city, named after the emperor Arcadius and decorated with porticos with columns.
In Ephesus, the temples of Domitian and Hadrian were erected, installing in them marble statues Roman emperors.
At this time, the first Christians began to appear in Ephesus. In 52-54 years. the apostle Paul lived and preached here, and perhaps the apostle John wrote his gospel here, who is buried in Ephesus in the church of the same name. According to ancient legend, in Ephesus she spent last years the life of the mother of Jesus Christ, the virgin Mary.
In 263, Ephesus was sacked by the Goths, the city quickly recovered, but did not return to its former prosperity.
In the V-VI centuries. Ephesus was an important city in the Byzantine Empire. At this time, it was heavily rebuilt, the temple of Artemis was finally destroyed, since most of population converted to Christianity. The stone from which the temple was erected went to the construction of Christian churches.
For a long time, Ephesus remained the main port city on the Aegean Sea.
But the harbor began to shallow, along with this, Ephesus fell into decay.
Arab raids became more frequent, and by the middle of the 7th century. the city was almost completely destroyed.
In the XIV century. the Seljuk Turks occupied the neighboring city of Ayasoluk, it began to grow and develop, a mosque, a caravanserai and Turkish baths were built. In the XV century. Ephesus was finally abandoned and Ayasoluk was renamed Selçuk.
In Ephesus, many historical monuments dating back to the Roman period have been preserved. Not all of them have been excavated, but the splendor of the ancient city can be judged by the already discovered sights.
Grand Theatre was built in the Hellenic period (III-I centuries BC), but seriously rebuilt by the Romans under the emperor Domitian and Trajan. He interfered with 24 thousand spectators. IN Byzantine period the theater was included in the wall that surrounded the city.
Big theater. Hilt. .
From the Bolshoi Theater begins marble street, which leads to the library of Celsus. Marble Street 400 meters long was laid in the 5th century on the site of an older one. Trade shops were located along the street and statues on pedestals were installed, under the street there is advanced system sewerage.
Library of Celsus is a shining monument ancient rome, which is a large luxurious collection, which was presented to the city by Titus Julius Aquila Polemean in memory of his father.
The small facade of the library is decorated with niches with allegorical sculptures, inside there is a burial chamber with the sarcophagus of Celsus Polemean, which was a rarity for the Romans, since the burial permit public buildings was given very rarely and only for citizens with special merits.
Nearby is Agora- the center of the trading life of the city, where merchants from all over the Empire gathered, they sold all kinds of goods, including slaves, and gathered here on holidays.
Kuretov Street stretched along the slope from the Library of Celsius to the gates of Hercules.
On the right side is house of love which consists of many rooms. Presumably it was a brothel, and the mosaic paintings depict the girls who once worked here.
On one of the floors you can see an antique toilet.
The House of Love was renovated by a wealthy woman, Scholastica, living in Rome, at the same time a hamam was added to it with relaxation rooms, a library and a salon for entertainment.
Temple of Hadrian was built in 138. It was decorated with statues of the emperors Dikoletian, Maximian, Constantius Chlorus and Gallery.
Temple of Hadrian. Hilt.
Only the front entrance, the pediment and the sacred room have survived to this day.
Not far from the temple was installed fountain of trajan, which adorned the statues (now they are in the Ephesus Museum), in the center of the fountain was a huge statue of Emperor Trajan, from which a stream of water spouted.
Opposite the temple of Hadrian are the houses where the rich and privileged citizens lived. The houses are located on a slope and each house serves as a terrace for the next house.
You can pay attention to the mosaic, which is laid out on the sidewalk in front of the houses. Everything speaks of the luxury that reigned here.
The houses were different big amount decorations and frescoes. So, for example, one of the houses, located on the second tier, was decorated with a fresco of the philosopher Socrates, and in a niche there was a statue of the goddess Artemis.
A bit further - Basilica of St. John, built in the VI century. under Emperor Justinian I, where the tomb of the apostle was supposedly located. It is a cleared square platform, along the edges of which there are four columns. In the middle of the square is a small tombstone in the form of a cross.
Kuretov street ends the gates of Hercules, which are decorated with statues of this god.
On the right is Temple of Domitian erected after his death. The temple was surrounded by a magnificent colonnade, inside was installed giant statue emperor. Hoam was located in the center of the city, opposite the agora.
Big square, surrounded by a colonnade - the city Agora, there were socially important buildings. such as the city palace Prytaneon, which houses the altar of the goddess Vesta with a sacred fire. Prytaneon played the role political center Ephesus where important ceremonies, feasts were held, sacrifices were made. There were also two statues of Artemis, which indicates the importance of the place.
Near Odeon - Maly Theater, built in 150, stands on a hillside. At first, the city Senate met in the Odeon, and then they began to give theatrical performances, alternating days.
And the most important temple - Temple of Artemis was presumably not far from here. From one of the seven wonders of the world, only a few columns remain.
It was the most magnificent, marble temple built in 550 BC. The project was designed by the Greek architect Persiphon. The rectangular temple, surrounded by a double colonnade of 127 columns, was decorated with bronze statues.
The temple served both as a religious place and as a market.
In 356, the temple of Artemis was burned down by one of the inhabitants Ephesus Herostratus, who dreamed of glory at any cost. According to legend, on the day when the temple of Artemis burned down, the future conqueror of Asia, Alexander the Great, was born.
When, after 25 years, Alexander approached the city, he wanted to restore the temple. The new temple was similar to the old one, but was larger in size. It was decorated with graceful bas-reliefs and statues.
In 263, the invading Goths plundered the temple. And in 391 Theodosius I banned pagan cults, but in Ephesus worshiped Artemis for another two centuries. Then, as a result of an earthquake, the temple was destroyed and abandoned.
In 1869, the British Museum began excavations.
Entrance ticket to Ephesus - 25 lira.
Entrance ticket to the Archaeological Museum (located in Selcuk, across the street from the bus station) - 8 lira.
On Mount Bulbul (at the entrance to the historical zone of Ephesus there are always taxi drivers offering to take you to the place) located house of the virgin mary. According to legend, before his death on the cross, Jesus bequeathed to take care of his mother to St. John. St. John transported the Mother of God to his hometown Ephesus and hid her at the foot of the mountain in a hut surrounded by dense forests, where she spent the last years of her life.
Another attraction associated with Ephesus – cave of the seven sleepers. According to legend, seven young Christians escaped persecution during the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305) by hiding in a cave where the Lord sent a dream upon them. They woke up only two centuries later, when Christianity became the official religion. In the place where this miracle happened, after the death of young people, a huge monument was erected, and the cave was called the "cave of the seven sleepers."
How to get to Ephesus:
From the bus station in Selcuk there is a dolmush (minibus), the fare is 2.5 lira.
Or on foot.
How to get to Selcuk -
Ruins of the ancient ancient city Ephesus is one of the most popular attractions in Turkey and invariably attracts a sea of ​​tourists. This monument is located on the western coast of Turkey, not far from small town Selcuk.
Back in the second century BC. there was a city here, and the city of Ephesus itself was once erected here as a port. The city reached its peak during the period of the Roman Empire - it was the second most important city after Rome. Subsequently, the sea receded to the west, the importance of the city fell sharply and it fell into disrepair.
Ephesus covers about 10 square kilometers, but most of its treasures are hidden in impenetrable swamps. But even what is on the surface is more than enough to spend the whole day here. Archaeological research ancient settlements were started in 1869 by English scientists and they continue to this day.
Ephesus is one of the few ancient cities that you can walk around today. Just stroll through its streets, contemplating architectural structures of past centuries, dilapidated, excavated by archaeologists, and re-presented to the world as proof of the boundlessness of the flight of human imagination. Changing cultures and religions, people, as a rule, destroyed everything that came their way, not caring in the least about what descendants would think. And we regret what was lost and try to imagine in our imagination what has not been preserved - the facades of houses richly decorated with stucco, the brightness and pretentiousness of the patterns of mosaic coverings, the grandeur of temples, the vaults of which soar on numerous rows of marble columns ...
Long ago, during the period of the Great Colonization, when the Ionian Greeks actively explored the coasts of the Mediterranean, Black, Aegean, Seas of Marmara(and it was between the 16th and 11th centuries BC) - all those seas that wash the peninsula of Asia Minor, occupied today amazing country Turkey - at the confluence of the Kaistra River into the Aegean Sea, the new city of Afasa was founded - the City by the River. This was preceded by almost mystical events. At that time, a king named Kodra ruled in Athens, and he had a son, Androclus. As you know, at all times and among all peoples, only God was higher than the king. And the Greeks have a whole pantheon of deities headed by Zeus.
The kings received news from their invisible patrons through the clergy. So Androclus received an order from the Delphic oracle - to found a new city on the coast of the Aegean Sea. Having gathered an army, Androclus immediately went to the lands where the Etruscans lived from time immemorial and among them a mysterious tribe of warriors, Amazons, who were not inferior to men in military art and therefore lived apart, only occasionally allowing men into their huts so that the Amazon family would continue. The oracle suggested to the son of Kodra where he should lay a new city - where three symbols come together - fish, fire and a wild boar. And Androcles found such a place. Having already despaired, having explored a vast territory, he decided to return home without salty slurping, as from a fire, on which fish were fried before a long journey, sparks scattered, the nearest bush caught fire from them, a wild boar jumped out of the bush.
The oracle has come true! - exclaimed the prince and ordered to found a city on this place. Thus the will of the gods was fulfilled, and from that time the history of ancient Ephesus begins.
The city at the foot of Mount Bulbul (modern name) is the second incarnation of the city of Androcles. It was built by one of the associates of Alexander the Great, who conquered it, or, as they say, freed it from the power of Persia in 334 BC. The name of the new ruler of Ephesus was Lysimachus. Alexander the Great made a truly royal gift to his warrior. One problem was in Ephesus - the Kaistra River (or Little Menderes) tended to become swampy, which led to the appearance of a huge number of mosquitoes that carried such a disease as malaria. People were dying, but flatly refused to leave their homes. Then the wise Lysimachus forced them to do this - he ordered not to supply water to the city. The inhabitants had no choice but to leave their homes and move away from the treacherous river.
Paved with marble and stones, the straight streets of the city descend down the mountain slope, and in the time of Lysimachus they led the traveler to the sea harbor, where numerous ships with goods landed. So the city developed due to extensive trade. But in the 3rd century BC, a strong earthquake occurred, as a result of which the sea receded, dropping 57 meters. This disaster, as well as countless wars of conquest, weakening the once strong city, marked the beginning of the decline of Ephesus. Today ancient Ephesus - dead city. But every day it comes to life again, filled with the multilingual speech of tourists walking along its streets. From the east gate, a vibrant crowd wanders down the hill, listening to the entertaining stories of the guides and barely managing to capture all the sights in a two-hour tour, clicking cameras left and right.
The first building, which, of course, is remembered by everyone, without exception, is the Odeon or the Maly Theater. It is well preserved, although it was built in 150 AD and was intended for city council meetings. It is unlikely that the senators of Ephesus were dressed as colorfully as the people sitting on its steps-benches today! Groups of tourists are located in tight clusters in all four sectors of the auditorium and listen, listen to the soulful speeches of the guides right under the hot sun, since the roof of the Odeon collapsed seventeen centuries ago. Now three hills made of bricks are clearly visible from the theater, which rise on high pedestals to the left of the seated. With a good imagination, one can imagine what initial form they had and, having imagined, be surprised: they were statues of three bulls, powerful, with their heads down, ready to attack anyone who gets in their way. The bull is still a symbol today Turkish city Selcuk, which occupies the territory of ancient Ephesus. By the way, the modern inhabitants of Turkey, which united many ancient kingdoms within its borders, still like to erect monuments or sculptural compositions animals, birds and even plants.
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So, in one of the cities on the way to Ephesus there is a monument to a fig - a fig tree in Greek - the same tree, with a large openwork leaf of which Adam and Eve covered their nakedness. But the monument was not built in honor of the biblical heroes, but because this sweet fruit, figs, is grown in these parts as the main agricultural crop. There is a monument to the rooster - in the city of Denizli, also nearby. This bird saved the city from a fire that happened in the early morning, so early that the rooster was not up to singing yet, but he sang, wailed and woke up the owner. And he, out of anger at the restless bird, decided to immediately cut off her head - he jumped out into the yard with an ax and ... saw a fire.
In Ephesus, the statues of people without heads are well preserved. Perhaps in those distant times they were made from some famous people or even the rulers of the city, but ... their names were swallowed up by history. But the bulls are still recognizable! Opposite the theater is the Agora, or simply put - market Square. They not only traded there, they held general civil meetings. That is - to talk with the whole world - welcome to the Agora, and if we whisper among ourselves on all sorts of political topics - we ask to the Odeon. But little remains of the Agora - openwork capitals from columns or parts of their own trunks, randomly scattered on the ground.
Ephesus is such an ancient city that along with the established facts of the appointments of dilapidated houses, the dates of the reigns of this or that emperor, there are legends that are organically woven into the canvas of history. The very name of the city gave rise to one of them - beautiful fairy tale about the queen of the warlike tribe of the Amazons, who lived on these lands before the arrival of the Greeks. The name of that Amazon was Ephesia, which means desirable. And she was so beautiful that Androclus fell in love with her at first sight. It is not known whether Ephesia was inflamed with the same ardent feeling for the Greek prince, but, oddly enough, agreed to become his wife. And then, following the example of their queen, all the Amazons also found their husbands among the soldiers of Androclus. Either they were exhausted without men at all, or they showed female wisdom, realizing that they could die in the battle with the Greeks, but violated their oath to preserve a monogamous society. Fascinated by his wife, Androclus named his city after her. This is how Ephesus was born.
Descriptions of female warriors are found in the myths and legends of the peoples of different countries. According to one version, all the Amazons are the daughters of the god Ares and his beloved goddesses - Harmony, Otrera and even Artemis herself, whom the Amazons of Asia Minor worshiped. They called their goddess Qibla. A distinctive feature of the goddess was many breasts. The statue of the goddess Artemis, found in Ephesus Artemisia, built in the 6th century BC, has come down to us. According to Greek mythology, Artemis was the sister of Apollo, the daughter of the almighty Zeus and the beautiful goddess Leto. The Amazons are always depicted on horseback, dressed in makeshift leather garments and helmets, armed with a bow, battle ax and a light shield. Their hair flutters over their shoulders, in their eyes there is courage, their faces are strict and express impregnability. And, of course, the warriors are slender as chamois, and at the same time, they have well-developed muscles of the arms and legs. But there is a description that says that the girls - the daughters of the Amazons burned out their left breasts for more convenient possession of weapons. And the Spartan way of life hardly contributed to the preservation of female beauty. Well, perhaps the male warriors from Athens liked the exotic female warriors more, and the gentle, well-groomed Greek women simply could not stand the competition.
From the Agora down to the library of Celsus, the Kuretov Street ran like an arrow. It can be called an avenue - straight, paved with stone and marble, with majestic buildings on both sides, it still impresses today. Pedestals are still preserved along the entire street, on which statues of gods and famous people that time. Surprisingly, the names engraved in stone have survived. The word "kuretes" in Ephesus was called the clergy of the Temple of Artemis, which, although it was part of the policy, still remained completely independent. The most stunning view of the street opens at the gates of Hercules - climbing onto the dilapidated wall of one of the buildings, you can see the entire perspective of the street.
And if you close your eyes and listen to people's speech, and at the same time forget about time, about the fact that the twenty-first century is in the yard, then the life of the city begins to seem natural. People go about their business - some to the bath of Scholastica, which is located behind the Temple of Hadrian, some to a public toilet, where both men and women relieve themselves at the same time to the sounds of an orchestra playing by a small fountain, so that natural sounds do not injure delicate hearing Ephesians. You can imagine how the owner of a rich house, the floor of which is decorated with a wide ribbon of mosaics, impatiently enlightened person strives to the library to immerse himself in the reading of ancient tomes, and perhaps use this as an excuse to get through the underground passage from the library to the Public the house opposite. And let the wife tell her friends what a smart husband she has, how he loves to read books! In the Greek period of the archaic, when culture was exalted to the level of the gods, Ionia - West Coast Asia Minor, where the city of Ephesus is located, was the most developed region of Greece. It was there that the first philosophical system of antiquity arose - natural philosophy. Philosophers pondered and argued, defending their view of the world, about its laws, comprehending the fundamental principle of things.
The city of Ephesus became famous for the name of Heraclitus of Ephesus (c.554-483 BC), who considered fire to be the fundamental principle of matter. In his opinion, both in nature and in society there is an eternal movement, an eternal struggle, being is constantly changing. How right Heraclitus was - and to this day those in power are fighting for it, still trying to change the world with fire and sword! The feeling of belonging to history persists throughout the walk along the street, which was buried under a thick layer of earth for almost two thousand years and was excavated by archaeologists only a little more than two centuries ago. The view of the perfectly preserved front part of the Library of Celsus is already mute delight - with four statues of goddesses, symbols of wisdom, consent, understanding. The library was built in the 2nd century AD in honor of the proconsul of Ephesus Celsus, whose marble tomb was later installed in the large niche of the hall. On the inside of the facade, there is a well-preserved inscription in Greek, which tells about the creation of the Library. In square niches along the walls reading room priceless papyri were kept. In the 3rd century, during the invasion of the Goths, the Library burned down with all the books and scrolls. Alas! Apparently the Goths were not interested in the wisdom of the world, and they did not care at all about preserving the priceless treasures of literature, philosophy and history.
From the Library of Celsus to the right through the gates of Mazeus and Mithridates, Marble Avenue goes to the most magnificent building of Ephesus - the Theater, which simultaneously accommodated thirty thousand people. It gave theatrical performances and held gladiator fights. The theater was built in 117, but even today it is a grand building. It takes your breath away when you look at it from the side of Portovaya Street - even semicircles of 68 visual rows converge in perspective at the facade of a three-story building of the stage, facing the observer with its back side. The stage was decorated with Ionic and Corinthian columns, between which were sculptures of gods and emperors. The capital - the part of the column that completes its trunk at the top - in the Ionic version looks like a rolled scroll, and the Corinthian column is decorated with a more complex ornament and looks a little more elegant.
Of course, in the 2nd century, visitors to Ephesus could not see the inside of the Theater from the street, since it was covered with a roof, but one can easily imagine how it looked then. And which magnificent scenery was opened to the eye from the Theater - after all, the sea harbor was practically next to it. Now to the coast of the Aegean Sea from the ancient ruins as much as twelve kilometers! But the Theater is not all that surprises the modern tourist in ancient Ephesus. The most significant building in its history, and not according to the preserved remains of walls and columns, remains the Temple of Artemis - that same many-breasted goddess who gives life to all living things, which has become a symbol of motherhood and fertility. Even in the period of antiquity, the Temple of Artemis was included in the seven wonders of the world along with Egyptian pyramids, Lighthouse of Alexandria, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon in Babylon, the statue of the Colossus of Rhodes, the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, the statue of Zeus in Olympia.
To the place where Artemisius once towered, today they travel by bus. After two hours of walking under the scorching sun, this is a few minutes of blissful relaxation under the coolness of air conditioners. The temple of Artemis of Ephesus, like the city of Ephesus itself, was rebuilt more than once. But invariably on the old foundation, which, as legends say, rested on a kind of pillow made of coal and bull skins - in this way the architect Harsifron protected the foundation from destruction by the swampy soil of this area. The first city of Ephesus, founded by Androclus, is still hidden by a swamp, and perhaps someday the time will come when archaeologists of the future will be able to “raise” it to the surface.
Today only one column remains from the Temple of Artemis. And there were 127 of them, 18 meters high. The roof of the Temple rested on them, under which countless treasures were stored - rich people gave their valuables to the Temple of Artemis, trusting the goddess like a Swiss bank. But one day the Temple was robbed, and it happened on the birthday of Alexander the Great. Subsequently, the priests of the Temple explained to the people who had lost their wealth that Artemis that day went to take birth with the mother of the Great Alexander. The robbers took advantage of this - in the absence of the goddess, they grew bolder and freely climbed into the treasury. This legend lived for many, many years, so that Alexander the Great felt guilty all his life before the inhabitants of Ephesus for that robbery. And he did his best to support them financially during the years of his reign. But even the Great Alexander could not imagine WHAT would destroy the Temple of Artemis - human stupidity and vanity, the desire to become famous for centuries in any way! There lived a man in Ephesus who really wanted to be remembered for a long, long time. He was not endowed with any special talents, did not shine with his mind and did not create anything that could eventually become a great value. Then he decided: “Since I cannot create anything, then I will destroy what has been created! And people will remember it all their lives, regretting the loss.” This man's name was Herostratus. And we remember this name today only because he burned down the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus. This happened 200 years after the opening of the Temple in 550 BC. The temple was badly damaged by fire, and Alexander the Great ordered to restore it at all costs. And the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus was rebuilt! It stood for over five centuries and was finally destroyed by order of Emperor Theodosius I, like a pagan temple, and a strong earthquake that happened a little later turned the remains of the once magnificent building into ruins.
In the background, behind the Temple of Artemis Ephesus, you can clearly see large building another temple built in the 1st century by the Roman emperor Justinian over the tomb of St. John, a disciple of Christ, one of the apostles of the Christian church, who, after the ascension of Christ, arrived here with the mother of Jesus, Mary. At the foot of Mount Bulbul, not far from the ruins of Ephesus, at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level, is the House of Mary, where she lived in recent years. The house was in the shape of a cross. The L-shaped part of the house has been preserved, in which today a small church is located, as they say, right in the part where the room of St. Mary was. Around the house is a beautiful and well-groomed park. There is a holy spring in it, the waters of which heal the ailments of believers, there is a wall of fulfillment of desires, near which they tie a ribbon with a knot and ask the Mother of God for help.
Believers of all faiths come to the House of Mary - Christians, Catholics, and Muslims. It's true Holy place, being in which you feel the presence of the Holy Spirit and unity with God. Saint John lived for 107 years, preaching the teachings of Christ. And he died of his own free will, convincing the disciples to bury him alive. But they could not stand it, and, tormented by repentance, dug up the grave two days later. The grave was empty. Traces of Christianity are present throughout modern Turkey. The respectful attitude of Muslims of the now secular state to the shrines of another religion, once persecuted and persecuted, has made it possible to preserve many architectural monuments, priceless frescoes depicting the face of Christ, biblical scenes, and the very memory of the names dear to every Christian. And Ephesus is one of those places. The very fact that Mary herself stepped on the marble slabs of the city streets of Ephesus causes spiritual awe. When alone, when accompanied by John, who, on the instructions of Jesus, became her adopted son, she, like any woman who lived at that time, walked around the city on her own business - to buy something for the household, to talk to someone or listen to what They say.
Climate. Weather in the region do not differ from the rest of the Aegean coast. In winter, it is warm and humid here, and the thermometer rarely drops below +10 degrees. In summer, the air temperature regularly exceeds +30, so to visit ancient ruins, it is better to choose early morning or evening.
How to get there. Transport. Closest to Ephesus international Airport located in Izmir, at a distance of 80 km. From there the most convenient option movement are represented by bus and Railway. A more romantic way is to take a ferry to the port of Kusadasi, and from there by bus to Selçuk. Further, 3 km on foot or by taxi.
The temple of Hadrian, which has survived to this day, was built in 138 AD. The temple in the Corinthian style was built in honor of the emperor Hadrian, whose statue is unfortunately lost, like the statues of other emperors placed in the temple. On the other side, the so-called “Houses on the Hillside”, or “Houses of the Rich” adjoin the Temple. Each of the houses in this part of Ephesus serves as a terrace for the next house. Frescoes and reliefs were found in the rooms of many houses, representing either the owners of the houses or scenes from famous plays.
During a walk through Ephesus, you will surely be shown a brothel, whose ruins still cause fierce disputes between scientists and local guides. Both of them have a lot of evidence that their theory is correct (scientists consider these ruins to be an ordinary house, while guides accept it only as a public one), including images of an erotic nature, and small rooms of the house, and even an underground passage from library, designed to deceive suspicious wives.
Ephesus is one of the few cities where tourists can admire the ancient street of the city, which has hardly changed for 20 centuries. Kuretov Street stretches from the library to the agora, and pleases tourists not only with a paved marble road, but also picturesque ruins and pedestals on both sides. Unfortunately, the statues that used to decorate the street are now in the museum, so you won’t be able to admire them in their original form. However, Kuretov Street is impressive even without them and conveys the spirit of antiquity.
Prytania is the place where Roman officials and chancellery worked, as well as important banquets and meetings were held. The ruins of this important building are still visible in Ephesus, as are the temple of Hestia, where a fire was once constantly burning.
