First night museum concert held at Türkiye’s Ephesus with Vivaldi

The highly anticipated Night Museum Concert Series, organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s General Directorate of Fine Arts, kicked off its first performance at the historic ancient city Ephesus on Sept. 22.

Held at the iconic Celsus Library, the concert featured a stunning performance by the Izmir State Symphony Orchestra. Acclaimed baroque violinist Andres Gabetta took the stage as the soloist, captivating the audience with his mastery. One of the highlights of the evening was Antonio Vivaldi’s famous violin concerto “The Four Seasons”, a beloved piece from the Baroque era.

Ephesus night museum concerts attract music lovers

The Night Museum Concert Series is a unique blend of art, history, and culture, offering visitors the chance to experience world-class performances in a historical setting. Ephesus, known for its well-preserved ruins and significant place in ancient history, serves as a remarkable backdrop for these concerts. The initiative, organized by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, allows visitors to enjoy both the splendor of classical music and the magnificence of this 2,300-year-old city under the stars.

The Night Museum concept, introduced on April 9, has transformed Ephesus into an evening tourist attraction, with the site illuminated by LED lighting, allowing visitors to explore its wonders after sunset. The concerts enhance this magical nighttime atmosphere, providing an unforgettable cultural experience.

Night museum tourism enhances visitor experience

Since its introduction, the “Night Museum” initiative has garnered positive feedback, particularly from tourists who prefer to explore historical sites in the cooler evening hours. With summer temperatures often exceeding comfortable limits, the evening tours at Ephesus offer a refreshing alternative, giving visitors a new perspective on the ancient city.

This special project highlights key attractions, including the Celsus Library, Agora Square, Trajan Fountain, and the Great Theatre, all illuminated to create an enchanting ambiance.

In addition to the concert, visitors can also explore other areas of the ancient city, such as the Terrace Houses, the Temple of Hadrian, and Marble Street, all of which are part of the night tour route.

Successful launch of Night Museum Concert Series

Cengiz Topal, director of the Ephesus Museum, expressed his delight at the overwhelming response to the night series. He noted that the visitor numbers for nighttime tours have increased by 25% compared to last year, showcasing the growing popularity of this innovative approach. The new lighting and concert events have breathed fresh life into Ephesus, making it an attractive destination for both history enthusiasts and music lovers.

The Night Museum Concert Series is set to continue throughout the year, offering more opportunities for visitors to enjoy world-class performances in one of Türkiye’s most iconic ancient cities. This unique fusion of music and history is a testament to the timeless appeal of Ephesus and the growing importance of cultural tourism in Türkiye.