Ephesus

This morning we arrived in Kusadasi in Turkey which is the port town for Ephesus.


Rob had already organized for us to be collected in a minibus complete with guide and driver, to take us to Ephesus.

Our first stop was at the House of Mar7, where it is believed she spent her final years together with John, the writer of the Gospel. It was on top of a hill and was rather cold but as we drove down towards the gate of Ephesus, the sun beamed out.

Ephesus is the best preserved ancient city but even so less than 20% of this 2000 year old city has been excavated. We visited the Terrace Houses which have been opened since were there in 2004. These were the houses for the wealthy because they had harbour views. (not anymore as the harbor silted up many years ago). There were still mosaic floors, wall frescoes and even a marble backgammon table.

We walked along the marble road where Paul walked and marveled at all the amazing sights.

Later we visited the Temple of Artemis, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world. There was not much left to see, mostly just 1 column.

Our final visit was to the Isabey Mosque which was built in the 11th century and had columns from Ephesus used in its construction.

Walking down the marble road.

The mosaic floor in a terrace house.

The library at Ephesus.

Detail of the stonework on the library.

Gail and Margaret at the Temple of Artemis.