Library of Celsus travel guide

The Library of Celsus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient Roman building in Selçuk, Turkey, originally built in the 2nd century AD.

It was a monumental tomb for Gaius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus, the governor of the province of Asia, from his son Gaius Julius Aquila. The library was built to store 12,000 scrolls and serve as a mausoleum for Celsus, who is buried in a crypt beneath the library.

The façade was carefully reconstructed in the 1970s to its former glory, making it one of the most visually striking ruins at Ephesus. Today, the Library of Celsus is one of the most visited and photographed sites in Turkey, attracting history enthusiasts and tourists from all over the world.

Discover Library of Celsus, a prime feature of Selçuk, in the vibrant Selçuk.

In the vicinity of Library of Celsus, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Selçuk, a town in Turkey rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this town from the comprehensive Selçuk travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Library of Celsus is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Selçuk, Turkey. If you're flying in, Adnan Menderes Airport is approximately 26.4 miles (42.5 km) away from the town center. From there, you can easily reach Library of Celsus by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Selçuk, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Library of Celsus, which is located 1.8 miles (2.8 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Atatürk, Meryem Ana Yolu No:15, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Library of Celsus!

To truly enjoy your visit to Library of Celsus, joining a guided tour of this renowned archeological site in Selçuk is highly recommended. As one of Turkey's most iconic attractions, Library of Celsus draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Selçuk, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Library of Celsus starting at just 35 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

The best time to explore the Library of Celsus, one of Turkey's most cherished historical structures, is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October). These seasons provide pleasant weather conditions, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, ideal for outdoor exploration. The summer months (July and August) see the highest number of tourists, leading to larger crowds and longer wait times. Therefore, planning a visit in spring or fall allows visitors to enjoy the site with fewer disruptions. Additionally, Selçuk hosts the Selçuk Ephesus Culture and Art Festival in September, offering a chance to immerse in local culture and festivities. To beat the daily crowds, aim to visit early morning or late afternoon, as these times provide a quieter atmosphere and the opportunity to witness the enchanting sunrise or sunset over the ancient ruins. Remember, the best time to explore Library of Celsus is when you can balance comfortable weather, manageable crowd levels, and unique local events.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Selçuk, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Library of Celsus.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic archeological site in Turkey.

Choosing the right accommodation near Library of Celsus from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Selçuk can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Library of Celsus, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Library of Celsus, Selçuk boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to mosque, the top attractions in Selçuk offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Selçuk is The Temple of Artemis, located at Atatürk, Park İçi Yolu No:12, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the town.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Basilica Of Saint John is worth seeing when you're in Selçuk. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Atatürk, St. Jean Cd. , 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to İsa Bey Mosque completes any trip to Selçuk. This mosque draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at İsa Bey, 2040. Sk. No:2, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The town's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Selçuk below to discover even more incredible places to explore.