In Ephesus one learns about the roots of Christianity. This was one of the most important cities in the world in the time shortly after the death of Christ. It was a crossroads for culture and ideas because its excellent harbor provided for easy access to travelers. It had one of the best libraries (shown here) in the ancient world. One is in awe as they realize that you are walking on the same streets tread by St. Paul as he spread the Word. It was here that he was imprisoned.

The arena at Ephesus was a large one used for all kinds of gatherings. It was here that Paul preached to those who formerly had worshipped the god Artemis.

Overlooking Ephesus is the Basilica of St. John. Located here is the grave site of St. John, the apostle. He came here after Jesus' death with Jesus' mother Mary. In rubble today, one can only imagine the grandeur of the structure. From this point you can see what's left of one of the seven wonders of the world, the Temple of Artemis. Only one column remains today.

On the cross, Jesus asked his apostle John to take care of his mother, Mary. John and Mary came to Ephesus between 42 and 48 AD. On a hill above Ephesus sits the house the Virgin Mary lived in while here. The place was officially dedicated as a shrine by the Catholic Church in 1896. It is a regular stop for pilgrims who partake of the water from the spring.

People in Ephesus eventually switched from the workshop of Artemis to the Virgin Mary in the Christian period. The city was the site of the third ecumenical council in 431 AD at which Mary was declared the theotokos or god-bearer.

Many artifacts from Ephesus are featured in a museum in the neaby town of Sel?uk. Included are pieces of statues of Artemis, the goddess worshipped by many.

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Updated April 11, 2001