Turkiye and Greece - April 25

April 25, 2026

Our adventure today took us to Ephesus.  The city of Ephesus was begun roughly around the year 2000 B.C.  The city has changed hands a few times.  The Greeks, the Romans, and the Turks have all overtaken the city at one time.  During its heyday it was a Greek sea port.  The port has eventually silted in which was one reason that led to its downfall.  The city lies some four to five miles from the current deep water port.  At one point Ephesus had a population of nearly 250,000.

Ephesus is currently an archeological site.  Only about one third of the ancient city has been uncovered.  It has been said that each time a new construction project begins in the area some ancient artifact is uncovered which then leads to an archeological dig.

Like Disney Land there is a bazaar immediately outside the exit.  Unfortunately for these merchants a recent discovery was made that will require both the bazaar and parking lot to be moved to make room for the archeological digs.

The highlights of the area included the Library of Celcius, the grand theater, the Harbor Street, and the public toilets (apparently sharing that event with all your neighbors was a thing).  Some original mosaics were also still visible.

Our visit to Ephesus was truly an interesting and informative time.

(Harbor Road - main entrance)

(the Grand Theater - seated 24,000 - the Apostle Paul and John the Baptist spoke here - still used for concerts - Elton John, Billy Joel, etc.)

(library of Celcius)

(floor mosaic)

(Christian symbol with message hidden in drawing)

(public toilet)

Flat Lizzy joined us again today.  She wanted to sleep in but we told her “if we have to get up, so do you”.  Just kidding.  She was up before us.

She joined for a selfie in front of the ship.

Lizzy posed before a statue of Apeth - the goddess of virtue, excellence, and moral goodness.

We all posed together upon entering Ephesus.

We are in front of the Roman bath.  Does she think I need one?

In the morning we will arrive in Greece by visiting Rhodes.

Tomorrow will be another adventure.

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