- 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.
- KISMET HOTEL – Your base
along the Aegean The "Akyar" peninsula was a bare piece of
land before Mr. Özbas constructed the first 24 room hotel next to
his small summer house in 1964 Over the years KISMET has grown to
gather with trees in his cozy panoramic garden.
The Hotel has now 100 comfortably furnished rooms all having
balconies with unique view and bathrooms, and international direct
dialing telephone. The Hotel's private beach is famous with its
crystal clear water and beach bar . One feels like on a ship's deck
at Kısmet's lobby bar and there is world famous marina bar with
live music. The Hotel's two restaurants are serving the best, from
Turkish and International cuisine.
These facilities are backed with Hotel's traditional hospitality;
it's ultra quality service and unique atmosphere.
- 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.
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Organized by
Senguler Tourism
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RATES;
Please ask for Price
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