Ephesus is located in modern-day Turkey, near the town of Selçuk in the İzmir Province, rather than in Greece. The ancient city, which was once a thriving port and cultural hub, now stands as one of Turkey’s most visited archaeological sites. Ephesus is often mistakenly thought to be part of Greece because of its rich Greek heritage and its important role in ancient Hellenistic culture, but geographically and politically, it is firmly within the borders of Turkey today.

Historical Context

Ephesus was originally established by Greek colonists around the 10th century BC and developed into a major city during the Classical and Hellenistic periods. Throughout its long history, Ephesus was influenced by several major empires, including the Lydians, Persians, Macedonians, and Romans. The city came under Roman rule in 129 BC and flourished as a provincial capital during the Roman Empire. However, even under Roman dominance, the city retained much of its Greek identity, as evidenced by its architecture, language, and religious practices .

Ephesus Today

Today, the ruins of Ephesus remain in Turkey and are a major draw for tourists from around the world. The site includes famous landmarks such as the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. While visitors may come to Ephesus expecting Greek history, they find it in the heart of Turkey, highlighting the complexity of ancient borders and empires.

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For guided tours and travel options to visit Ephesus, explore Ephesus Tours.