Ephesus Vacations, Ephesus Vacation Reviews, Tourism Guide

Ephesus (or Efes in Turkish), or more precisely the ruins of Ephesus, is an amazing archaeological site just outside Kusadasi, Turkey. The city of Ephesus was founded as an Attic-Ionian colony in the 10th century BC.

The mythical founder of the city was Androklos, a prince of Athens who was forced to leave after the death of his father, King Kadros. Legend has it that Androklos decided on the currently location based on information from the oracle of Delphi.

In its later years, Ephesus became the Roman capital of proconsular Asia (the western part of Asia Minor) under the rule of Augustus, who became Emperor of Rome in 27 BC. Under Roman rule, Ephesus prospered and it is estimated that its population grew to between 400,000 to 500,000 by 100 AD, making it the largest city in Roman Asia and the largest city of the time. The first and second century AD was the peak period for Ephesus.

Ephesus was known for many great buildings, including the Temple of Artemis, the Celsus Library and its outdoor theater which could hold 25,000 people. In terms of infrastructure, the city also was known for its baths and its advanced system of aqueducts.

The city began its decline in the late third century AD after the Goths destroyed the Temple of Artemis and most of the city in 263 AD.