The Story Of The Foundation Of Ephesus According To The Legend
According to ancient historians, the tradition of Ephesus’ founding dates back to before the Ionian invasion. Androclus, the son of Codrus, the fabled King of Athens, consulted the oracle on where to settle or found a settlement, as was usual in ancient times. The solution was simple: “in the location suggested by a fish and a wild boar.” After landing in Anatolia, colonists were camped near there and frying fish. A flaming fish caught fire to a bush, forcing a boar to rush out of the bush and flee. The colonists opted to settle there after remembering the oracle’s remarks.
Let’s delve deeper into the mysterious journey of Ephesus, an ancient city where history and legend intersect. Nestled on the coast of Ionia, this city’s foundation story is as enchanting as its ruins are captivating. Join us as we unravel “The Story of the Foundation of Ephesus According to the Legend,” a tale that takes us back to the dawn of civilization.
The Legend of Ephesus’ Birth
According to legend, the founding of the ancient city was guided by the dreams and prophecies of the ancient oracles. The story begins with a prince named Androklos, who, seeking a new homeland for his people, consulted the Oracle of Delphi. The oracle prophesized that a fish and a boar would lead him to the promised location. One day, as his followers cooked their catch by the Aegean shore, a fish flopped from the fire, igniting the brush. A frightened boar ran from the flames, marking the spot where Androklos would establish the city, fulfilling the oracle’s prophecy.
The Influence of Artemis in Ephesus
Central to the Ephesus legend and its foundation is the goddess Artemis, revered as the patroness of the city. Ephesus became the site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The temple not only signified the city’s religious significance but also its political and economic status. The cult of Artemis attracted pilgrims from all around, weaving the deity’s protection and prosperity into the city’s identity.
The Contribution of Myth to Ephesus’ Legacy
The myths surrounding the ancient city contributed significantly to its legacy as a center of culture, trade, and spirituality. Legends of its founding, coupled with the grandeur of the Temple of Artemis, highlighted Ephesus as a place of divine favor and strategic importance. These stories, passed down through generations, have fascinated historians, archaeologists, and tourists alike, drawing them to explore the ruins and relive the city’s storied past.
From Ancient Myths to Present Wonders
The legend of Ephesus’ foundation is a testament to the city’s enduring allure, blending myth with history. This ancient city, born from prophecy and protected by divinity, invites us to explore its ruins and imagine its splendid past, making Ephesus a timeless beacon of ancient civilization’s glory.
The Legacy and Influence of Ephesus Today
Today, the ancient city stands as a monumental testament to the intertwining of human achievement and mythological wonder. Its well-preserved ruins offer a window into the past, allowing visitors from around the globe to step back in time and walk the streets once roamed by ancient Greeks and Romans. The legacy of Ephesus, from its mythic foundation to the grandeur of the Temple of Artemis, continues to captivate the imagination of modern explorers. This enduring allure underscores the city’s significance not just in ancient history, but also in its continuing story as a beacon of cultural heritage and archaeological discovery.
To discover and witness history, take a look at our private guided Ephesus Landmarks and Legends Tour.
Old Photos From The Ancient Region
ISA BEY MOSQUE
Archeologists mention that there is a possibility of an Apollon temple in the place where the mosque was built. It
GROTTO OF 7 SLEEPERS
The Seven Sleepers, commonly called the “Seven Sleepers o Ephesus”, refers to 7 early christians who lived in Ephesus in
The Rich History of the Basilica of St. John
Located in the ancient city of Ephesus in modern-day Turkey, the
An overview of the Ephesus Museum
Ephesus Museum is a treasure trove of ancient history and artifacts. Located in the city of Selçuk, near the ruins
THE ARTEMIS TEMPLE
The Artemis Temple or Artemision was one of the Seven Wonders of the World and located in Ephesus. Throughout the
Get to Know about the Sacred House of Virgin Mary
The House of Virgin Mary is a sacred site located just outside the ancient city of Ephesus in modern-day Turkey.
THE NYMPHAEUM OF TRAJAN
The Nymphaeum of Trajan is a 2C AD building with two stories built by an Ephesian in memory of the
THE HERCULES GATE
The Hercules Gate can easily be identified by two reliefs of Hercules wearing lion’s skin. The pillars date from the
THE HADRIAN TEMPLE
The Hadrian Temple was built in the 2C AD and renovated in the 4C ad in the name of the
THE GRAND THEATER
The Theater is one of the most impressive buildings in Ephesus. It was originally a 3C BC Hellenistic theater which
TERRACE HOUSES
The Terrace Houses on the Curetes street belonged to the rich people of Ephesus. They date back to the 1C
STATE AGORA
The State Agora was a vast public square laid out and remodeled during the reign of Augustus (27 BC-14 AD).
THE CELSUS LIBRARY
The Celsus Library was built in the beginning of the 2C AD by Gaius Julius Aquila to be a memorial
ODEON
The Odeon in Ephesus was built in the 2C AD and had a double function. First it was a theater
DOMITIAN TEMPLE
During the Roman period, Ephesians erected many buildings and temples, and dedicated them to emperors in order to secure good