- Efes proudly houses one of the seven ancient wonders of the
world; the Temple of Artemis(it was rebuilt several times, in
its latest form dates from the third century B.C. ) The city,
whose wealth and patronage supported its splendid
architectural program, was dedicated to the goddes Artemis.The
precise date of the city's foundation is not known but the
legend says that Efes was first founded by Women Warriors of
the Amazon in the 11th century B.C. and later inhabited by
Ionians. In short time the city became very important. It
became the trade centre of Asia during the reign of the
Imperor Augustus.
- The city still retains its importance, but this time as the
most important archeological and historical city in Turkey.
One of the most amazing ruins in Efes is the huge amphitheatre
with a 24.000 seat capacity and superb acoustic effects. The
ruins also include a gymnasium, agora and baths, as well as
the Library of Celsus.
- The nearby town of Selcuk is dominated by a Byzantine
citadel which stands close to the 6th century basilica of St.
Jhon, supposedly built on the site of the apostle's tomb.
Tradition has it that, after the death of Christ, Jhon brought
the Virgin Mary to Efes where she is said to have spent her
last days in a small house built for her on Bulbuldagi ( Mt
Koressos) Now a place of pilgrimage for Roman Catholics and a
popular site for all, the house has received the official
sanction of the Vatican, and a commemoration ceremony is held
every year on August 15th.
- EPHESUS,
HOUSE OF THE VIRGIN MARY AND ARTEMIS TEMPLE (1 DAY)-
Today we
tour Ephesus, which was one of the largest and most
interesting ancient cities of Asia Minor. The tour of Ephesus
includes the Library of Celsius, Temple of Hadrian, Agora and
fantastic Greco-Roman theater. We will also visit the house
where The Virgin Mary allegedly spent her last days, and the
Temple of Artemis, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the
World. Return to your hotel in Kusadasi or Selcuk L. Note
that if you take this tour as a private tour you may also
include a visit to the Church of St. John, the museum in
Selcuk and Sirince village. We also arrange tours of Ephesus
for cruise ship customers.
- PAMUKKALE
AND HIERAPOLIS (1 DAY) - Today
we drive through the Meander valley to Pamukkale and visit the
ancient city of Hierapolis with the Temple of Apollo, the
breathtaking Theater, the fascinating Necropolis and the last
the great baths of Hierapolis antique city, where St. Philip
was martyred. We will also visit the calcium pools for which
Pamukkale is named (Cotton Castle). You may have a chance to
bathe in a Roman pool with columns. Return to Kusadasi or
Selcuk. L. Note that if you take this tour as a private
tour you may also visit the ancient site of Aphrodisias in the
same day.
- PERGAMON
(1 DAY) - We
will visit the Pergamon Acropolis, where the ruins of Zeus
Altar can still be seen today. The acropolis is situated high
above the plain and has a unique panoramic view. The very
narrow and steep theater on the hillside could seat up to
10,000 people. Parchment paper was first produced in Pergamon.
We will visit the remains of the Great Library, which rivaled
the one of Alexandria in Egypt, the palaces of the kings, and
temple of Trajan. Visit the Asclepion, which was known as the
first place of medical science. Galen, who originated from
Pergamon and became the most famous doctor of his time,
treated his patients here. Return to Kusadasi or Selcuk. L. Note
that if you take this tour as a private tour you may also
visit the Red Church and Museum of Pergamon in the same day.
- MILETUS,
PRIENE AND DIDYMA (1 DAY)-Visit three of the most
important cities of the antique period: Priene, Miletus and
Didyma. Priene is one of the most typical antique cities of
the Hellenistic Period. St Paul visited Miletus during his
third journey, and the city was very important with its 80
colonies, and philosophers Thales and Anaximander. Apollo
Temple situated in Didyma, was the third biggest building in
the world at this time and was a most important place for
prophecies. It is possible to combine this with swimming at
Altinkum Beach. Return to Kusadasi or Selcuk. L
- IZMIR
AND SARDES TOUR (1 DAY)-Today
we will make a pleasant visit to the city of Izmir, which may
include the museum, clock tower and Konak square, Kadifekale
on Mt. Pagos and St. Polycarp Church or Kemeralti market. We
will continue to the ancient site of Sardes with its gymnasium,
Temple of Artemis and ancient Synagogue. It was once the
wealthy capital of the ancient Lydian Empire, and was the
first place in history that coins were minted. Return to
Kusadasi and overnight.
- Ephesus - Full Day (Private)
House of Virgin Mary, Ruins of Ephesus Ancient City,Archaeology Museum,St. John Basilica.
Ephesus - Half Day (Private)
House of Virgin Mary, Ruins of Ephesus Ancient City.
Explore Ephesus - Full Day
Temple of Artemis, House of Virgin Mary, Isa Bey Mosque, Ruins of Ephesus Ancient City.
Pamukkale - Full Day
Pamukkale (Cotton Castle), Hierapolis, Necropolis, Thermal Baths, Devils Hole, Masterpiece Theater, Swimming or a therapeutic bath in a hotel pools.
Jewel of Ionia - Full Day
Priene, Temple of Athena, Bouleterium, Miletos, Delphinium, Nymphanion, Faustina Baths, Didyma, Temple of Apollo.
Pergamon - Full Day
Acropol, Ancient Hospital & Health centre, Red Hall.
Greek Islands
Samos & Other Greek Islands by ferry.
Boat Trip - Full Day
Exploring the beautiful local bays, lunch as barbeque on the boat.
1001 Nights - Turkish Night
Dinner at a first class restaurant, Spectacular Floorshow of famous Belly Dancers, typical Anatolian Folklore groups.
FOR DETAILED INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS, CONTACT US.
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