EPHESUS

Ephesus was an ancient city of Ionia in Asia Minor, now in modern-day Turkey. It was one of the most important cities of the Hellenistic world and the capital of the Roman province of Asia. Founded around 1100 BC, Ephesus was known for its strategic location and became a major center of trade and culture. The city was home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which was destroyed and rebuilt several times. Ephesus also featured the Great Theatre, another of the Seven Wonders, which could seat up to 25,000 people. The city was a significant religious and cultural hub, with a diverse population that included Greeks, Jews, and Romans. Ephesus was also known for its advanced infrastructure, including an aqueduct system and a public bath complex. The city's decline began in the 3rd century AD, and it was eventually abandoned. Today, Ephesus is a popular tourist destination, with extensive ruins and archaeological sites that attract visitors from around the world.