Aphrodisias: The intermission of this morning’s long drive was a stop at Aphrodisias. I know that sounds like something you’d buy at an “adult” toy store, but remember that Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love (particularly the passionate and erotic kind) was widely worshiped in ancient Greece and Rome (where they called her Venus). Largely due to its proximity to marble quarries north of the city, Aphrodisias thrived as an artistic center and home of great sculptors. Of course, the site includes a Temple of Aphrodite (3rd Century BCE), but also a hippodrome, a theater and a museum featuring many fascinating sculptures.
Kusadasi on the Aegean Coast
An early afternoon arrival in Kusadasi left us plenty of free time to explore this vibrant, seaside resort town. The Hotel Ilayda Avantgarde [Click Here] was great, located right on the street looking out over the harbor and the beach. We walked the streets, found the bazaar, did a little shopping, and returned to the hotel to meet others for drinks. The main attraction tomorrow is Ephesus.
Ephesus:
We spent hours walking this huge archeological site. One of the wealthiest cities in ancient Greece, Ephesus today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was a well-established Greek city, built in the 10th Century BCE, long before the Romans took over. It was important for early Christianity, as St. Paul lived here for a time, worked with the local congregation, and later (some believe) composed his “Epistle to the Ephesians.” Nearby is a shrine believed to have been the last home of Mary, mother of Jesus. Walking the white stone streets of Ephesus, there is much to see, but the most spectacular are the massive theater that could seat twenty-five thousand, and the façade of the Library of Celsus – where all the tourists take their group photos.
Our photos from Ephesus...how to choose which to share
THE TERRACE HOUSES in Ephesus: Archaeologists have been excavating 7 houses owned by the richest Ephesians. These were high ranking officers, governors and rich tradesmen. The size of the homes are starting from 1000 square feet and the largest one was 6000 square feet. They date back to the 1st century AD and inhabited until 3rd century AD. The houses were destroyed and abandoned after a major earthquake and tsunami in 262AD.
Back in Kusadasi after the tour, we shared one last dinner together, toasted our fabulous leaders, Mine and Togay, exchanged gifts with our “Buddies,” and said our last good-byes. Tomorrow morning, we all go our separate ways. For Evan and Sara, it was off to Athens.
Sara’s Summary: Turkey was more than I ever imagined, a country with beautiful mountains, coast lines on the Mediterranean, Aegean and Black Sea, and amazing landscapes in between. The people are so friendly. The history is fascinating. The cities we visited were each so unique. And the food was delicious. Evan and I decided to explore Turkey with a Rick Steves “Best of Turkey in 13 Days” Tour. It gave us the opportunity to explore and experience Turkey in ways we couldn’t have on our own. It was a great decision. In addition to the 13-day tour, we spent three days in Istanbul before the tour began. For sure, this was an amazing experience – we will return to Turkey and would feel comfortable visiting on our own! And we will take more tours with Rick Steves Europe.
