Friday, January 30, 2009

Secular and Religous History in Turkey

Today I pull into Ephesus in Turkey. We actually dock in Izmir, but the majority of the history is in the place that was once known as Ephesus.

This will mark the first visit to one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. The once-beautiful Temple of Artemis has been taken apart piecemeal until it now consists of a single column in a field.



Much more happily, the Library of Celsus has had its facade, along with a portion of its interior. I'm really looking forward to this portion of the trip.

Interestingly, Ephesus is also the home of what is said to be the last earthly home of the Virgin Mary. Amy's family is pretty much exclusively Catholic, so we'll be visiting that and getting some holy water.

Thanks again for reading, and I hope you've had enjoyed this week full of guest bloggers. Next week we'll have more submissions from guest bloggers as well, and I'll continue to update you as to my where-abouts. Take care, and have a good weekend!