Temple of Artemis

Once counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis now survives as a single reconstructed column rising from a waterlogged field on the edge of Selçuk. That contrast, between what this place once was and what remains, is the whole point of the stop.

Standing in front of the column, the scale of the original sanctuary is genuinely difficult to picture. The surrounding field is largely open, with fragments of stone visible at ground level. Storks often nest on top of the column, which gives the scene an odd, quiet character that photographs do not quite capture.

We spent only a few minutes here, and that is roughly what the site warrants for most visitors. It works well as a short add-on to a day already centred on nearby Ephesus, which is within easy reach. There is little in the way of shelter or facilities on site, so arrive prepared for the weather.