Ephesus Ancient City Now Open at Night: A Magical Journey Through Time Under the Stars

Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is now offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore its ancient streets under the night sky. As part of a new initiative by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the historical site is illuminated with special lighting, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere after sunset.

Walk Through 9,000 Years of History – By Moonlight

Located in Selçuk, İzmir, Ephesus boasts a rich cultural heritage dating back to the Neolithic period, with layers from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras. The new “night museum” experience allows visitors to discover this timeless site in cooler evening hours, away from the summer heat.

What to See at Night in Ephesus

Key landmarks such as the Library of Celsus, Curetes Street, the Temple of Domitian, the Great Theatre, the Agora, and the Terraced Houses are all beautifully lit, offering a fresh perspective on the grandeur of the ancient city.

Visiting Days and Hours

Night access to Ephesus is available four days a week – Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday – from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The last ticket entry is at 10:00 PM. The program will continue until October 1st. Please note that on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays, night visits are not available due to special allocations.

Strong Visitor Interest on Launch Day

Murat Kaleağasıoğlu, Director of the Ephesus Museum, expressed satisfaction with the public’s interest, stating:

“From the very first night, we saw a high turnout. This initiative offers a cooler, more comfortable way to explore Ephesus during the summer months while also enriching the visitor experience.”

Cultural Tourism Reimagined

This project is expected to boost cultural tourism by attracting both local and international visitors who prefer exploring historical landmarks in the evening. It also adds a magical dimension to one of the world’s most impressive archaeological sites.