Haghios Theologos (Ayasoluk Tepesi)

This is the site of the ancient city acropolis. In the course of time it assumed the form of an alternative settlement and, after the silting up of the harbours had reduced the importance of Ephesus as a port, the Byzantines built a castle on Ayasoluk Tepesi. After its capture by the Seljuks in the 11th century the hill changed hands several times between the Byzantines and the Anatolian Seljuks, finally emerging in 1438 as a commercial centre subject to the Aydinogullan. It was finally incorporated into Ottoman territory in 1402. It came under Greek occupation in the years 1919 to 1922. Since 1957 it has formed part of the province of Izmir.

During the 19th century the centre of administration was transferred for a time from Ayasuluk to the large Greek village Sirince.

Places to visit:

• Isa Bey Mosque
• The church of St. John the Evangelist
• Selcuk Castle
• Archaeological Museum