Derives its name from the Island of Birds, an old pirate stronghold topped by a castle. This lovely port built along the shores of a glittering bay and it is an ideal location for those who wish to spend their days exploring the many classical historic sights in the area.

The main town centre is a bustling thoroughfare dominated by the walls of the old Caravansary, which has a good range of open air cafes, bars and fish restaurants; everything you expect from a busy harbour. Kadinlar Plaji (Ladies Beach) is 3km south of the town and offers the best beach as well as many of the best hotels, bars and cafes within a traffic free environment. In this area the approach to life is a little more relaxed than in the main town.

KUSADASI, HIGHLIGHTS & SIGHTSEEING

EPHESUS (EFES)

The best preserved and most visited of Turkey’s ancient city of Ephesus was found around the Tenth Century BC by Ionian Greeks from Samos and ruled in turn by the Lycians, Persians, the Attalid Kings of Pergamum and finally the Romans, under whom the city became the capital of Asia Minor with 200.000 inhabitants. The scale of the site is awesome and you will need a minimum of three hours to appreciate the city beginning from the Magnesian Gate entrance and continuing on to find the Odeon, Prytaneum, Temple of Hadrian, Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre and many more.

THE VIRGIN MARY’S HOUSE (MERYEM ANA)

Lies just outside Selcuk, on what used to be known as Mount Caressos (now called Bulbuldagi; Mount of the Nightingales) it is the most peaceful spot where the Virgin Mary is believed to have spent her last years. This location was discovered 100 years ago and the foundation of the present house appears to be 1st Century. The story has it that St.John brought her here between A.D.37 and 45. Today, the simple structure contains a chapel. Now a popular place of pilgrimage for Christians and Muslims, the house has received the official sanction of the Vatican and Christians observe a commemoration ceremony here every year.

SELCUK

The small town of Selcuk is a tiny settlement marked by the remains of the sixth century Basilica of St.John where tradition has it that his body rests under a marble slab with marble columns and red brick walls. Don’t miss the museum to see the Temple of Artemis, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. Down the hill is Isa Bey Mosque, built in 14th Century by the Selcuk Turks. It is famous for its stalactite gate.