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.

Located in the dynamic Selçuk, the popular Library of Celsus is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Selçuk or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Turkey.

Selçuk is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Selçuk offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Selçuk and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable The Temple of Artemis, Basilica Of Saint John, İsa Bey Mosque, Ayasuluk Citadel, and Virgin Mary Statue.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Selçuk has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Selçuk, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Turkey!

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 Selçuk. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Library of Celsus, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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!

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Library of Celsus and other top attractions in Selçuk than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Selçuk include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Library of Celsus's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Library of Celsus and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

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.

Conveniently explore Library of Celsus and plenty more captivating attractions in Selçuk by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Library of Celsus and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Selçuk has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Library of Celsus below.

Aside from Library of Celsus, Selçuk is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Selçuk, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely The Temple of Artemis, Basilica Of Saint John, and İsa Bey Mosque.

The Temple of Artemis is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Selçuk, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 5,200 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of The Temple of Artemis is Atatürk, Park İçi Yolu No:12, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye.

Another appreciated attraction in Selçuk is Basilica Of Saint John. Like The Temple of Artemis, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 2,200 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Atatürk, St. Jean Cd. , 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye.

İsa Bey Mosque is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Selçuk. This mosque and top attraction in Selçuk has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,900 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of İsa Bey, 2040. Sk. No:2, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Türkiye.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Selçuk below.