Located within the boundaries of the Selçuk district, Ephesus was one of the most important cities in Ionia during the Roman Empire and the Classical period.

The ancient city is famous for the remains that have been found there: the Cathedral of Mary, the Church of St John, the Celsius Library, the Temple of Artemis, etc.

During the Roman era, Ephesus had a large Jewish population, and was one of the first communities visited by Saint Paul. An engraved menorah has been found on the stairs of the Celsius Library , and another on one of the columns of the Avenue du Port, as well as at the entrance to the Agora.