A visit to Efes ( Ephesus ), once the commercial center of the ancient world, is a highlight of any visit to     Turkey. The city,whose wealth and patronage supported its splendid architectural program, was dedicated
 to the goddess Artemis. Her enormous temple, once considered one of the Seven wonders of the
 Ancient world and rebuilt several times, in its latest form dates from the third century BC. The ruins also   include a theater, gymnasium, agora  and baths, as well as the library of Celsus

  The Ephesus International Festival of Culture and Tourism is held annually in May.

  Tradition has it that, after the death of Christ, St. John brought Virgin Mary to Ephesus about 40 A.D.
  where she is said to have spent her last days in a small house built for her on Mt.Koressos. Now a
  pilgrimage for Roman Catholics and a popular tourist site for all, the house has received the official
  sanction of the Vatican, and a commemoration ceremony is held every year on August 15th