Selçuk

Quick Facts: Who was Selçuk?

Subject:

Selçuk

Known for:

A historic district in İzmir, Turkey, famous for its proximity to Ephesus and ancient sites.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Selçuk is a municipality and district of İzmir Province, Turkey. Its area is 317 km2, and its population is 38,151 (2022). The town Selçuk is located 2 kilometres (1 mile) northeast of the ancient city of Ephesus, that was once home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Selçuk is one of the most visited tourist destinations within Turkey, known for its closeness to the ancient city of Ephesus, House of the Virgin Mary, and Seljuk works of art.

Career & Major Achievements

The ruins of the 6th century Basilica of Saint John the Theologian, which, some claim, is built on the site of the Apostle's tomb, is also inside the town. Procopius said that the basilica was a most sacred and honoured place in Ephesus. It was severely damaged and sacked by the Seljuks in 1090 and by the Aydinids and Menteshe in 1308.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The place was excavated in 1927, and Pope Paul VI paid it a visit and prayed there. Its previous Greek name, Agios Theologos (Άγιος Θεολόγος), referred to John the Apostle, because emperor Justinian I had erected there the basilica in honour of the Saint. Ayasoluk is a corrupted form of the original name.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1090: 1090 Milestone — It was severely damaged and sacked by the Seljuks in 1090 and by the Aydinids and Menteshe in 1308.
2. 1927: 1927 Milestone — The place was excavated in 1927, and Pope Paul VI paid it a visit and prayed there.
3. 2022: 2022 Milestone — Its area is 317 km2, and its population is 38,151 (2022).

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Selçuk

True or False: “The primary reason for Selçuk's enduring fame is its direct proximity to the ancient city of Ephesus.”

Answer (TRUE ⭕): Selçuk is renowned as a major tourist destination precisely because it is located only a short distance from the historically significant and architecturally rich ruins of Ephesus.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Selçuk