Ephesus
placeGreat Ionian city and site of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The Myth
Ephesus was dominated by the Temple of Artemis, a structure so magnificent it was counted among the Seven Wonders. The Ephesian Artemis was distinct from the Greek huntress — a many-breasted fertility goddess reflecting the city's Anatolian roots. Heraclitus was born here and deposited his philosophical writings in the temple. The city later became a major centre of early Christianity — Paul's Letter to the Ephesians and the Book of Revelation both address its community.
Symbols
Fun Fact
The phrase "Great is Artemis of the Ephesians" from Acts 19 records an actual riot by silversmiths who feared Paul's preaching would destroy their idol-making trade.
Explore Further
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