
Cultural & Historical Destinations in Selçuklu, Konya, Turkey
1. Ephesus Ancient City
Ancient Greek city and former center of the Roman province Asia. Known for its impressive ruins, including the Library of Celsus.
- Architectural Marvel: Features stunning architectural structures like the Library of Celsus and the Grand Theatre.
- Historical Significance: A place where you can walk through the streets of an ancient city, dating back over 2000 years.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors understand and appreciate the historical context better.
2. House of the Virgin Mary
A small house located on a hill near Ephesus, traditionally believed to be the final resting place of the Virgin Mary.
- Religious Significance: A pilgrimage site for Christians around the world.
- Natural Beauty: Located in a peaceful and serene environment, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: A tranquil place to reflect and appreciate the religious history and significance.
3. Selçuk Museum
Museum dedicated to the Seljuk Empire and local archaeology. It houses a vast collection of artifacts from Ephesus and other ancient sites.
- Cultural Insight: Provides valuable insights into the history, culture, and daily life during the Seljuk Empire.
- Artifact Collection: Showcases an extensive collection of artifacts from Ephesus, including sculptures, mosaics, and coins.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors understand the context and significance of the artifacts on display.
4. Isa Beys Mansion
19th-century Ottoman mansion with an intricate interior design and a beautiful courtyard.
- Ottoman Architecture: An excellent example of Ottoman architecture, showcasing traditional designs and decorative elements.
- Interior Design: Features intricate wooden carvings, colorful tilework, and stained glass windows.
- Historical Context: Offers insights into the lifestyle of the Ottoman aristocracy during the late 19th century.
5. St. John's Basilica
A Byzantine church built in honor of St. John the Evangelist, located near Ephesus.
- Early Christian History: One of the seven churches of Revelation mentioned in the New Testament.
- Architectural Style: Features a basilica-style layout, typical of early Christian architecture.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors understand the history and significance of the site.
6. Temple of Artemis
Ancient Greek temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Architectural Wonder: One of the most famous temples in ancient Greece, known for its architectural prowess.
- Historical Significance: A symbol of ancient Greek civilization and a testament to human ingenuity.
- Restoration Efforts: Currently under restoration, offering visitors a glimpse into the past while also witnessing ongoing preservation efforts.
7. Selçuk Castle
Medieval Byzantine and Seljuk castle ruins overlooking the modern town of Selçuk.
- Historical Context: Provides insights into the military strategies, defense mechanisms, and architectural styles of the Byzantine and Seljuk periods.
- Panoramic Views: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the town of Selçuk.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors understand the historical context and appreciate the military significance of the site.
8. St. Philip's Martyrium
A church built in honor of St. Philip, one of the twelve apostles, located near Ephesus.
- Early Christian History: A significant site related to early Christianity and the life of one of Jesus' apostles.
- Architectural Style: Features a basilica-style layout, typical of early Christian architecture.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors understand the history and significance of the site.
9. Terrace Houses at Ephesus
Well-preserved ancient Roman homes located in the upper class residential district of Ephesus.
- Residential Life: Provides insights into the lifestyle, wealth, and culture of the upper class during the Roman period.
- Archaeological Findings: Includes numerous artifacts such as frescoes, mosaics, and household items.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors understand the historical context and appreciate the architectural significance of the site.
10. Meryemana Thermal Springs
Natural hot springs located near Selçuk, believed to have therapeutic properties.
- Relaxation and Healing: Offers a relaxing and healing experience in the midst of historical sites.
- Natural Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
- Therapeutic Properties: Believed to have therapeutic properties for various health conditions.
11. Ephesus Terrace Houses Museum
Museum dedicated to the excavated terrace houses at Ephesus, showcasing everyday life during the Roman period.
- Everyday Life Insights: Provides valuable insights into the daily lives of the upper class in the Roman Empire.
- Artifact Collection: Showcases numerous artifacts discovered during the excavation of the terrace houses, such as frescoes and mosaics.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors understand the historical context and appreciate the archaeological significance of the site.
12. Zeugma Mosaic Museum
Museum located in Selçuk, featuring a collection of Roman mosaics from Zeugma, modern-day Syria.
- Cultural Exchange: Illustrates the cultural exchange between the Eastern and Western Roman Empires during the ancient period.
- Artistic Masterpieces: Showcases stunning artistic masterpieces in the form of intricate mosaics.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the mosaics.
13. Double Church of Mary (Yeni Cami)
A Byzantine church converted into a mosque during the Ottoman period, located in Selçuk.
- Religious Diversity: Illustrates the religious diversity and coexistence of different faiths over time.
- Architectural Blend: Features both Byzantine and Ottoman architectural elements, showcasing a unique blend of styles.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors understand the historical context and appreciate the architectural significance of the site.
14. Hadrian's Temple
Ancient Greek temple dedicated to Emperor Hadrian, located in Ephesus.
- Roman Architecture: An excellent example of Roman architecture, featuring intricate carvings and columns.
- Historical Significance: Dedicated to the famous Roman emperor Hadrian, offering insights into his life and reign.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors understand the historical context and appreciate the architectural significance of the site.
15. Ephesus Archaeological Museum
Museum dedicated to the artifacts discovered during the excavations at Ephesus. It houses a vast collection of sculptures, mosaics, and coins.
- Cultural Insight: Provides valuable insights into the history, culture, and daily life during the Ephesus period.
- Artifact Collection: Showcases an extensive collection of artifacts from Ephesus, including sculptures, mosaics, and coins.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours to help visitors understand the context and significance of the artifacts on display.