Day 08 - Ephesus, Ephesus Museum

Today we woke up to a beautiful view of the turquoise Aegean Sea framed with the Greek island Samos less than a sea mile away. Our journey took us from the seaside city of Kusadasi along roads lined with orchards of tangerines, peaches, olives, and tobacco to our destination of Ephesus.

The city of Ephesus currently is the largest archaeological site in the world. In Asia Minor, Ephesus was the fourth largest city with approximately 250,000 people, it had the largest theater with approximately 25,000 seats, the third largest library, four aqueducts that supplied water to the city and it was one of three major ports in Asia Minor.

Ephesus was a city deeply rooted in paganism with Artemis, the goddess of hunt and fertility as its primary deity. The temple of Artemis, was one of the seven wonders of the world. Magic and sorcery were also prevalent during the first century Ephesus.

Pastor talked about the humility (Phil 2:3-11) of the Christians coming face-to-face with the powerful wealthy, influential pagan city. Paul’s journey to Ephesus in (Acts 19:1) is an example of how God puts his people and churches in places of influence to do his work.

We toured seven opulent terrace homes in Ephesus the first being the home of the high priest. His Home was 12,000 sq. ft. with marbled walls and tiled floors. Pastor Josh discussed that we are to be humble with our money and do good and be rich in good works and be generous and ready to share. (1 Timothy 6:17-19)

After a delicious traditional Turkish lunch, we visited the Ephesus museum. Then we were treated to some local shopping where we discovered Turkish delights and local ceramics.

The Bairds