Travel points of interest in Ephesus today with bestephesustours.com? Located 6 miles away from Selcuk town, popular village. First inhabitance dates back first century. The early christians from Ephesus escaping from the persecutors founded the village. This was a Greek Orthodox village till 1924. Was named as “Cirkince” meaning the ugly for while. The word Kirazli is derived from the word “kiraz” which means “cherry” in Turkish. Kirazli refers to the place that has cherries. A traditional and non-touristy Turkish Village, 10 km away from Kusadasi. Surrounded with Cherry Trees, Fig Trees, Olive Groves, Tobacco Fields… We offer private tours of Ephesus with a traditional Turkish breakfast at Kirazli Village from Kusadasi. Read more info on https://www.bestephesustours.com/biblical-private-ephesus-tour-from-kusadasi.html.
This citadel-like basilica once occupied the whole breadth of the hill it sits on and was ranked with the Hagia Sophia in Constantinople (now the Aya Sofya) as one of the Byzantine Empire’s largest churches. According to tradition, the grave of St. John is under the church. Originally, a mausoleum with a domed roof borne on four columns was built over the grave, but the Emperor Justinian replaced this simple monument with a three-aisled basilica on a Latin-cross plan boasting six domed roofs. Including the narthex at the western end and the arcaded courtyard, the basilica was 130 meters long and 40 meters wide. After the Seljuks captured Ephesus in 1130, the church was converted into a mosque and later served as a bazaar until it was finally destroyed by an earthquake. Although only partially restored, the basilica ruins that remain give a good idea of the awesome size of the original building.
This Seljuk-era mosque is a beautiful example of the fine architecture of the 14th century. Its tall outer walls enclose a large arcaded courtyard leading to a double-domed prayer hall. The large columns of black granite used in the structure were recycled from the Roman baths. Above the richly decorated main entrance is an elaborate calligraphic inscription. Dated January 10, 1375, it identifies Ali, son of Mushimish al-Damishki, as the architect. Visitors are welcome to visit the interior outside of prayer times. To gain entry, make sure you are dressed appropriately, with shoulders and knees covered. Female visitors should wear a headscarf.
Ephesus Ancient Theatre has been known for being the biggest open-air theater of the ancient period. The capacity of this theater is 25 thousand people and it includes 65 rows. Ephesus Ancient Theatre is considered one of the most important structures worldwide in terms of art history. The theatre has not been only used for artistic activities. It has also been used as a place for gladiator fights. Even if the stage of the theatre has collapsed, the rows are still solid. The story of the theatre actually tells us about the formation of modern theatre. According to this story; various performances were held to honor Dionysus, the god of wine, during the vintage festivities. The main subject of these games was Dionysus’ life philosophy, which alternated between pleasure and pain.
Turkey is full of wonders but undoubtedly Ephesus Ancient City Tour is one of the best attraction for tourists. Ephesus known as the capital of Rome in Asia Minor, an important transit point on route of merchant ships. Thus become an issue of battles along the history. Ephesus tours from kusadasi port is also mostly preferred as a biblical sightseeing for guests into Christian history. Ephesus Ancient City was the final home of Virgin Mary and St John. It is known as where St. John wrote the Gospel of John; the letters John I, John II and John III. The letter written in Ecumenical Council held in Ephesus (AD 431) stated that ‘the city of Ephesus as where the John and Mary lived’. Also Ephesus known as the city where St. Paul lived almost 3 years for missionary works. Best Ephesus Tours is fully knowledgeable and experienced with Private Ephesus Tours for the guests interested in Christianity history also. Discover even more information on bestephesustours.com.
Temple of Artemis, is also known as the Temple of Diana. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Artemis was completed in Ephesus around 550 BC. The temple was built entirely from marble. Even if the temple has been used for more than 800, it was never really completed. The architect of the temple, known as Artemisium in Latin, is known as Chersiphron from Greece. When the temple was first built, it was visited by many people from kings to artists, traders, and travelers, and was used as a religious building where they offered their blessings and beliefs to the goddess. There is no entrance fee for the Temple of Artemis. Visiting hours of the temple have been announced from 9 A.M to 7 P.M but as there are any guards in the neighborhood, the hours might be flexible too.