Archaeological Ephesus & Museum
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port
Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey
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activityLevel
Moderate Activity
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excursionType
All
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$100
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 4½ hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals included
"Located within what was once the estuary of the River Kaystros, Ephesus comprises successive Hellenistic and Roman settlements founded on new locations, which followed the coastline as it retreated westward. Excavations have revealed grand monuments of the Roman Imperial period including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. Little remains of the famous Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, which drew pilgrims from all around the Mediterranean. Since the 5th century, the House of the Virgin Mary, a domed cruciform chapel seven kilometers from Ephesus, became a major place of Christian pilgrimage. The Ancient City of Ephesus is an outstanding example of a Roman port city, with sea channel and harbor basin."
Meet your professional guide and set off to visit the ruined city of Ancient Ephesus -- This incredible site was founded by the Carians and Lelegs. Today, this is one of the most magnificent and best-preserved archaeological sites in the world.
You will see the glorious Celsus Library façade, restored and reconstructed in the 1970s, the Temple of Hadrian and the Great Theatre with a seating capacity of 25,000 people. Your guide will share some little-known details about the life and times of the ancient city.
You will also visit the Ephesus Archaeological Museum. This small museum in Selcuk boasts an incredible collection of Hellenistic and Roman statues, carved reliefs and artifacts unearthed from the ruins of Ephesus. The famous statue of Artemis (goddess of fertility) is housed here -- don't miss it.
En route back to Kusadasi you will stop for refreshments and a optional carpet demonstration at a local weaving village. Enjoy watching the skilled artisans spinning and dyeing yarn and weaving carpets.
Guests who wish to stay in town to shop or explore on their own are welcome to do so but must return to the ship on their own.
Please note: Shade is limited; please dress accordingly. Bring a hat and wear sunscreen. Expect dense crowding and congestion at the sites. The use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.