Port
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
Activity Level
Strenuous Activity
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$180
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 6½ Hours
Meals Included
Meals included
Showcasing the religious history of Ancient Turkey, your day will start with a pleasant drive through the countryside to visit the ruins of the city of Ephesus. The site dates predominantly from the later Roman period and includes the towering façade of the Celsus Library and Hadrian's Temple. The Sacred Way was one of the main thoroughfares used by the Ancient Romans.
As part of your tour, very special access has been arranged to the Domitian Galleries, named after the Emperor Domitian. A crypto-portico, or passageway, located behind a temple was used as a gallery for some of the inscriptions found at Ephesus. More than 150 inscriptions can be viewed here, mostly carved on marble and dating from 750 BC through AD 600. This section of Ephesus is closed to the public, but Seabourn has arranged a special visit on your behalf.
You will also visit the Terrace Houses located opposite Hadrian's Temple -- a newly excavated residential section of Ephesus. The wealthy and important people of Ephesus used these houses, so they are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes, giving a true impression of the ancient lifestyle. Those on the upper slopes of Bulbul Mountain are reached by steps, and the roof of one house forms the terrace of the one above it.
Continuing from the library to the end of the marble street, you can look up at Ephesus' impressive amphitheatre where St Paul preached to the Ephesians.
Next, visit Solmissos -- a setting that is a shrine to some and a curiosity to others. It is reputedly the home of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ. Archaeological evidence shows that the little house you will see here dates from the 6th century AD but that its foundations are indeed from the 1st century AD. This ties in with the commonly-held belief that Mary moved to Turkey.
Enjoy a delicious lunch of local specialties at a nearby restaurant before returning to Kusadasi to enjoy an optional carpet demonstration and some time for shopping. Explore the town and return to the pier at your own pace.
Please note: Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Expect dense crowding and congestion at the sites. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, inclines, gravel, grass, and steps. Wear comfortable, non-skid walking shoes. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.