Discover Ephesus: Fresh routes, new discoveries await visitors in Izmir

Ephesus, located in Izmir, Türkiye, is preparing to give visitors a new way to explore its rich history.

As part of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s “Eternal Ephesus for the Future” project, visitors can discover Ephesus through new walking routes, a redesigned entrance, and restored archaeological areas. These updates aim to create a more comprehensive experience of the ancient city.

Ephesus reveals layers of Anatolia’s historical eras

Ephesus, known as the site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is a historical treasure. It contains traces of Anatolia’s history from the prehistoric era through the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ephesus continues to attract global attention with its ongoing excavations and restorations, which have been underway for 161 years.

The city, once a major hub for trade, culture, and tourism, still holds many unexplored sections. Visitors are drawn to its ancient ruins, which offer an in-depth look at the vibrant life of the past.

Discover Ephesus: New routes will make rarely seen areas accessible

The “Eternal Ephesus for the Future” project enhances the visitor experience with newly designed routes. Starting at the Vedius Gymnasium, the new path guides visitors along Stadium Street.

It includes views of the stadium and continues through prominent landmarks such as the grand columns of Harbor Street, the ancient theater, and significant structures like the Bath of Harbor.

Project Coordinator Professor Serdar Aybek explained the importance of these developments to discover Ephesus:

We are highly focused on this work because it has uncovered a previously little-known route in Ephesus. The path you see here is exceptionally well-preserved, with the columns and flooring of the colonnaded street revealed in their original condition.

Before the project began, very little of this area was visible on the surface. Now, we’ve created a key destination that stretches from the newly planned entrance at the Vedius Gymnasium directly to the heart of the city. This route connects to the ancient theater and intersects with Harbor Street.

In the next phase, we’ll concentrate on leveling the pavement and restoring the fallen columns to enhance the area even further

The project is expected to be completed by November 2025. Once finished, visitors will gain new insights into the ancient city’s layout and historical significance.

Archaeologists discover monumental Roman bath basin

During excavation and restoration, researchers uncovered a monumental basin, or “labrum,” that was used in Roman baths. Professor Aybek explained its importance:

“Labra were commonly used as decorative pools in Roman baths. This example from Ephesus is extraordinary, but it was likely moved from its original location. We hope to determine its history through further studies.”

The restored labrum will be displayed for visitors after the completion of its restoration.

Ephesus remains one of the most visited archaeological sites in Türkiye, offering an unmatched glimpse into ancient life. The latest developments under the “Eternal Ephesus for the Future” project are set to make the site more engaging and accessible for visitors.

With its expanded routes and restored artifacts, Ephesus continues to connect visitors with the history and heritage of Anatolia.