A Journey Through Ages: The Legendary Temple of Artemis & the Majestic Basilica of St. John
Embark on a captivating journey through distinct eras of faith and architecture, uncovering the stories of two of the most significant historical sites near Ephesus: the ruins of a former Wonder of the World, the Temple of Artemis, and the imposing Basilica of St. John the Apostle in Selçuk.
Witness the Echoes of an Ancient Wonder: The Temple of Artemis (Artemision)
Imagine the unimaginable scale and magnificence of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Dedicated to the Greek goddess of the hunt and fertility (revered by the Romans as Diana), this colossal temple was one of the largest and most lavishly decorated temples ever built. Although today the elements and time have left only foundations and a single, symbolically reconstructed column amidst a marshy field, visiting the site allows you to connect with the legend. Our guide will help you visualize its lost grandeur and narrate the turbulent history of the temple's multiple destructions and reconstructions.
Uncover the Legacy of an Apostle: The Basilica of St. John
Ascend Ayasuluk Hill in the modern town of Selçuk to discover the impressive ruins of the Basilica of St. John. Built in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, this massive basilica was erected over the believed burial site of St. John the Apostle, the beloved disciple of Jesus and author of one of the Gospels and the Book of Revelation. Once one of the largest churches in Christendom, its ruins still impress with their scale today – explore the remains of walls, columns, foundations, the beautiful marble baptistery, and feel the spiritual atmosphere of this important pilgrimage site through the centuries. The view from the hill over the surrounding area is also remarkable.
Your Journey Through History Includes:
We provide everything needed for an informative and comfortable visit:
Round-trip Transfer: Convenient pick-up from and return to your hotel in the Kusadası area.
Licensed English-Speaking Tour Guide: In-depth narration on the history, architecture, and significance of both sites from a professional guide.
Site Visits: Entrance fees (where applicable) and guided exploration at the site of the Temple of Artemis and within the Basilica of St. John.
Shopping Opportunity: Free time to purchase souvenirs, books, or other items in the Selçuk area.
We Recommend You Bring:
For comfortable exploration of these historical sites:
Comfortable Shoes: You will be walking on archaeological sites with uneven surfaces.
Water: Especially important during the summer months.
Camera: To capture your memories.
Respectful Attire: Recommended for visiting the Basilica of St. John.
(Optional): Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in millennia of history – from pagan splendor to Christian heritage. Book your tour to the Temple of Artemis and the Basilica of St. John today!
Excursions and holidays to The Legendary Temple of Artemis & the Majestic Basilica of St. John:
Kusadasi Coach Program
Departure every Friday for 7 nights
16.05.25-10.10.25
Travel to Kusadası with your own Transport
Choose a date, hotel and book!
01.04.25-31.10.25
Kusadasi Average Temperatures
Average Monthly Air Temperature in Kuşadası, Turkey
January 12°C
February 13°C
March 15°C
April 19°C
May 23°C
June 28°C
July 31°C
August 31°C
September 28°C
October 23°C
November 18°C
December 14°C
Average Monthly Water Temperature in Kuşadası, Turkey
January 16°C
February 15°C
March 16°C
April 17°C
May 20°C
June 23°C
July 25°C
August 26°C
September 25°C
October 22°C
November 20°C
December 18°C