Ephesus

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Almost every one of us has grown studying the History and some world-famous civilizations of Indus and Mohan-Jodaro that were once the flag-bearers of Human civilization. But their evolution and end belonged to the age Before Christ and the excavations were in a very ruined state.

If I tell you about a place which holds a very importance place in the hearts of Christians and is still blessed with the untouched artifacts of the B.C. age, would you not accompany me.

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I know you can’t avoid this opportunity to dive into the History books yet another time to explore one of the most historical towns of sculptures and temples, the Ephesus.

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This town has developed slowly and steadily from the Neolithic to the Turkish Era and has managed to conserve its rich and varied heritage. The town was the residence of St.Paul during his missionary journey. The House of Virgin Mary which is believed to be the last home of Jesus’ mother is yet another tourist attraction. Though only a sixth of the town has been successfully excavated, its still a feast for the eyes to see the largest collection of Roman ruins.

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The Library of Celsus, originally built in 135 AD still stands tall after it was restored and re-established. The Great Theater with a capacity of over 24,000 people is a wonder in itself.

The extent of civilization is confirmed by the fact that once upon a time the city had streets illuminated by oil lamps, great baths, Harbor and Theater Gymnasiums and what not.

The temple of Artemis, dedicated to the Goddess of Hunt was one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient World.

Commercial Markets (called as Agoras) were well developed with arched shops about 40 ft deep. Ruins also confirm the construction of terraced houses which were once decorated with mosaics and wonderfully-crafted frescoes.

This city was one of the greatest seaports of the ancient World and was once well connected to the Babylonian, Smyrnain and the Meander Valley.

There is so much more in this city that this ancient joy-ride would never end.

Finally, we see the cave of the Seven Angels where it is believed that seven holy men once slept for a long time. They were persecuted since they believed in GOD. They were considered saints by both Christians and Muslims.

This was one big history scuba-dive. I’ve never seen so many History-Archaeology at a single place. I hope you thoroughly enjoyed this trip and will join us soon again to plunge into the never-ending mysteries of Earth.