9am - you'll be met at the dock by your private guide holding a sign with your names and will then board your luxury minivan (with A/C and non-smoking) to see some of the best preserved Roman sites around today.
In today's era, Thales is regarded as one of the seven sages of Greek civilization and is remebered for arguing that water is the essence of all life. This argument is significant because it is the first attempt to explain the physical world without reference to a supernatural power. Prior to Thales; all such explanations relied on gods or mythological forces.
During Roman days, Miletus enjoyed a very prosperous period that hosted one of the largest Jewish congregations in Asia Minor. Touring the Roman Theater, one can still see the inscription that front-row seats were reserved for Jewish notables.
Contributions of important figures during the Byzantine period, when Isodorus of Miletus built the greatest basilica in the Christian world in the 6th Century. It kept that title for another millenium to come.
Didyma - Visit this temple that dates back to the 6th century BC. In ancient times; the marble-covered road connecting Miletus to Temple of Apollo was one of the most prestigious sacred pedestrians and as decorated with statues of the Branchide Dynasty - who were the founders of the Miletus colony in the 13th century BC. Approaching the site, one can still see a stretch of the ancient road connecting the temple to Miletus/ There were three identical temples of the ancient Greek civilization/ the Temple of Hera on Samos Island, the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus and the Temple of Apollo in Didyma. The last is the best preserved today - with its grandeur and breathtaking columns. It served as one of the biggest banks in the ancient world.
The ancient philosopher Strabo stated in his great work Geography (XIV.1.5): "The temple is adorned with the costliest offerings consisting of early works of art."
Enjoy lunch at a lovely local restaurant . After lunch, return to Kusadasi where you should have time to hunt for bargains in fine jewelry and silverware. At the end of the day, your guide will escort you back to your cruise ship in the port.
Duration - 5 hours
Pricing - USD $295 per person (2-3 pax) and USD $150 per person (4-5 pax)
Includes - Professional lecturer/guide, luxury non-smoking minivan with A/C, all entrance and parking fees, guide books, maps, bookmarks and stamped postcards, complimentary refreshments in vehicle. Lunch and guide tips are extra.
Languages - English
Tour Code - TU-VTSdimi