Selçuk

 We flew from Istanbul to Izmir a few days ago and headed straight to Selçuk. We’re staying at the Nilya Hotel, a small inn with breakfast and a beautiful courtyard full of cats. The ancient city of Ephesus is about three kilometers from here. 

Heading back to the hotel in the evening 

The archeological site of the Basilica of St. John is just around the corner from the hotel. We toured the ruins a couple of days ago. There are still some columns and arches standing and tomb of the Apostle St. John is there. The story is that he accompanied Mary to Ephesus after Christ was crucified. 

Ruins of St. John’s Basilica

Ayasuluk Castle on the hill above St John’s Basilica

Details

The tomb of the Apostle St. John

The Temple of Artemis is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. After we visited the archeological museum in town, we walked over to see what was left of the temple, not much unfortunately. Earthquakes destroyed most of what stood here.

There’s almost nothing left of the Temple of Artemis 

The archeological museum in town was wonderful!

Here are some pics—

And lastly, out and about in Selçuk—dinner, market, and relaxing in town.

The baby at the hotel—love her!!

Heading to Ephesus tomorrow morning!