Every tourist destination has its attractions. However, because every tourist is different, these attractions have greater or lesser value. In this series Gary’s gives his reasons for traveling to a particular place. Hopefully some of his thoughts will entice you to consider adding this particular place to your itinerary. The entire series is being categorized under the heading, “Spotlights.” You may find more about these locations in the archives of this website, under headings such as, “Great Places,” “Things to Do in,” “Best of,” “Top 10” and “Places of a Lifetime.” In addition, there may be “Walking Tours” of these places available for purchase on the website for the low price of $1.49 each.

The Roman city of Ephesus was a major port and trade center during its heyday. However, the seas retreated leaving the city high and dry. The population left and the town turned to ruin. Today Ephesus is a popular stop for cruise ships involving Greece and Turkey since it offers a glimpse into what life was like during the days of the Roman Empire. Include Ephesus in your Greek itinerary for at least the following reasons:

1. The Celsius Library was one of the Ancient World’s greatest libraries, rivalling those at Alexandria and Pergamum.

Celsius Library

2. Ephesus had community toilets with running water to carry away the wastes — imagine that!

Ephesus Toilets

3. Typical of Roman cities, there were many memorials to Roman emperors throughout the city.

Fountain of Trajan