Ephesus

Ephesus was a major city established by the ancient Greeks in Asia Minor, located on the eastern coast of the Aegean Sea near the mouth of the Cayster River (in modern-day Turkey). Originally a natural river port, Ephesus had an extensive road network, controlling the gateway to the interior of Asia Minor. It held immense military and commercial value and was a key hub for cultural and trade exchanges between the East and West. In the Roman era, it served as the capital and one of the most important cities of the province of Asia, with a population of over 300,000, including a large Jewish community. It was also a religious center, home to the Temple of the goddess Artemis (also known as Diana; see Acts 19:35), which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Ephesus was one of the early centers of Christianity. Paul stayed there for over two years (Acts 19:8–10), strengthening the church and discipling believers, using it as a base for gospel ministry throughout the region of Asia. According to tradition, the Apostle John and the mother of Jesus, Mary, also lived here. After the sixth century, Ephesus declined as its river port silted up, and it now exists only as a ruin.

Ephesus was a religious hub, home to the Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders of the World—and a great theater. The practice of sorcery was widespread, and the city had a large Jewish population. Paul’s stay in Ephesus during his three missionary journeys was his longest in any city. He used this commercial city as a base to spread the gospel throughout the province of Asia. It is also the location of one of the seven churches mentioned in the book of Revelation.