First founded in Neolithic times, Ephesus was an outstanding centre of civilization in the Antique Age. Recent studies and archaeological excavations in Ayasulug Hill, whereby the citadel is situated, and in the neighboring tumuluses (prehistoric mounds for habitation) of Ephesus uncovered a number of settlements which date back to the Bronze Age, and to the Hittite period when the city was named Apasas.

Being the major gateway between the East and the West (Asia and Europe), Ephesus was a significant port in ancient times. Owing to its unique position, Ephesus developed to be the biggest political and trade centre in Anatolia, and eventually, was made the capital of the Asian State during the Roman period. Throughout its history, Ephesus was an important centre of civilization, science, culture and art.

Ephesus lied buried for centries until the first digs started by J.T. Wood  in 1869. The first relic unearthed was the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the world. The Celsus Library next to Agora also functions as a Mausoleum. Excavations and studies in Ephesus are still underway.

Today, Ephesus is one of the most popular touristic centres in Turkey attracting thousands of people from all over the world to its ruins and historical works every year.