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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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