Selcuk Turkey Travel Guide


Selcuk Turkey Travel Guide
A Vagabond Life

Selcuk Turkey Travel Guide A Vagabond Life

Nestled in the heart of Turkey’s Aegean region, Selçuk beckons travellers with its enchanting blend of ancient history and warm hospitality. A gateway to the renowned archaeological site of Ephesus, Selçuk is a charming town that invites exploration of its well-preserved historical treasures. The iconic Library of Celsus, the Grand Theater, and the Temple of Artemis stand as testaments to the city’s rich Greco-Roman past, offering a captivating journey back in time.

Beyond its archaeological significance, Selçuk exudes a relaxed ambiance that allows visitors to immerse themselves in local culture. The town’s vibrant street markets, where traditional crafts and local produce abound, provide a delightful glimpse into everyday life. The historic Basilica of St. John and the Isa Bey Mosque add a cultural layer to the town’s landscape, showcasing the diversity of influences that have shaped Selçuk over the centuries.

Surrounded by olive groves and gently rolling hills, Selçuk also serves as a base for exploring the scenic countryside and nearby coastal areas. The warmth of Turkish hospitality and the flavors of authentic Aegean cuisine make Selçuk a destination where ancient history seamlessly meets the welcoming embrace of contemporary Turkish life. Whether exploring archaeological wonders or savoring local delights, Selçuk promises an immersive and unforgettable travel experience.

Selcuk Turkey Map

Selcuk Turkey Map
Selcuk/Ephesus Turkey Placeholder
Selcuk/Ephesus Turkey

Things To See & Do In Selcuk Turkey

City of Ephesus 

City of Ephesus 

If you see one thing in Turkey see Ephesus. Once n Ancient Greek and then Roman city Ephesus is a stunning collection of restored buildings and ancient ruins. Situated 7km from Selcuk, go early to avoid the hoards. Read more about Ephesus.

Basilica of St John

Selcuk
Basilica of St John

Basilica of St John was built by Justinian I in the 6th century and stands over the beloved burial site of John the Apostle. The Basilica sits on the slopes of Ayasuluk Hill below in Aysauluk Castle in the centre of Selcuk.

House of Mary the Virgin

House of Mary the Virgin

House of the Mary the Virgin is not far from Selcuk and is both a Catholic and Muslim shrine. Catholic pilgrims visit the house as they believe that Mary, the mother of Jesus was bought here by Saint John and lived the rest of her life in the house as seen in visions by Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich.

Isa Bey Mosque

Isa Bey Mosque

Isa Bey Mosque was constricted in 1374-75 in honour of Ardini Isa Bey, an Anatolian dynasty, and based on the design of the Great Mosque in Damascus. The Isa Bey Mosque is worth a visit as it is a pretty impressive display of architecture of its time.

Ayasuluk Kalesi

Ayasuluk Kalesi

Ayasulik Kalesi Is on a hill in the centre of Selcuk. Once the heart of Ephesus before the harbour silted up and the population moved to a new site. Inside you will find the remnants of a mosque, cisterns from the Otterman times and the outlines of houses.

Turkey Travel Guides

Turkey Travel Stories

Turkey

Turkey

Turkey Turkey: We landed by  in Turkey at the town of Ayvalik and hiked to couple of kms into town looking for the bus station

Read More »