The ancient city of Ephesos (also known as Ephesus) has a rich history dating back to 6000 B.C. In the eighth century B.C., Ephesos became one of 12 major Ionian cities. During this era, construction began on the Temple of Artemis, which was destroyed by Herostratus in the 4th century BC and attacked once more by the Goths in the 3rd century AD. (...)
The ancient city of Ephesos (also known as Ephesus) has a rich history dating back to 6000 B.C. In the eighth century B.C., Ephesos became one of 12 major Ionian cities. During this era, construction began on the Temple of Artemis, which was destroyed by Herostratus in the 4th century BC and attacked once more by the Goths in the 3rd century AD. Its final reconstruction was in the 4th century and is one of the most significant structures at Ephesos today and considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World,
During the Roman Empire the port city of Ephesos was the most densely populated and wealthy city of Asia Minor, as well as an important commercial center. However, by the early fifth century, uncontrolled silt from the river made the port of the city useless. While settlements continued through the Byzantine era and the Middle Ages, the city never regained its importance until the archaeological discoveries of the 19th and 20th century made the ancient city of Ephesos once again the focus of great attention. Its architectural riches and complex history have made it an important destination for scholars and travelers for more than a century.
