Ephesus

Pondering the Harbor Road, Ephesus

Try to imagine what the view from the Theater to the Harbor (area) looked like in the biblical period.

Harbor Road, connecting the harbor of Ephesus to the Great Theater, was the path used by sailors and kings to enter the city. Built in the Hellenistic period, the road was not just lined with columns, colonnades, and sculptures, it was also lit with 50 street lamps after dark. Innovative for the period, it was one of only three illuminated streets in the Mediterranean basin.

We'll be returning to Türkiye and Ephesus next summer, June 27-July 8, 2026. Price is $3,300 (land only) for 12 days of archaeological illumination. You won’t find a better experience for the price!

White Storks, Roman Ruins & Biblical History

The Storks of Ephesus: Where Ancient History Meets Natural Wonder

Here is a perfect intersection of interests: White Storks (Ciconia ciconia) nesting atop a Late Roman column in the heart of Ephesus.

For centuries, pilgrims have journeyed to this corner of Türkiye to pray, study classical history, and probe deep New Testament connections. Ephesus remains one of the most vital sites for understanding the world of the early church and the journeys of the Apostle Paul.

Nature’s Annual Pilgrimage

But pilgrims aren't the only ones drawn to these ruins. White Storks flock to Ephesus for the rich wetlands and balmy Mediterranean summers. Their migratory patterns are remarkably consistent:

  • Arrival: They touch down in mid-March, just as the spring wildflowers begin to bloom across the ruins.

  • Departure: They depart for their wintering grounds in Africa during August.

Whether you are a "birder" tracking the Ciconia ciconia or a history enthusiast walking the Marble Road, Ephesus offers a unique glimpse into both the mysterious past and the vibrant present.

Join Us in Ephesus in 2026

We have curated three distinct opportunities to experience the wonders of Western Türkiye next year. Whether you prefer the cool spring or the golden autumn, we have a seat for you:

  • Spring Expedition: Mid-March 2026 (Perfect for stork sightings!)

  • Summer Journey: Late June 2026

  • Autumn Pilgrimage: Late October 2026

For details on these and other curated journeys, consult our Bible Land Explorer trip list here.