European Stars and Stripes (Newspaper) - July 12, 1990, Darmstadt, Hesse                                A amps Susan Hamstra Elers tips Ephesus can be an enchanting encounter with ancient history but unprepared visitors will find Atour of the ancient City less than pleasurable. Most visitors prefer viewing the ruins during the summer a decision that virtually ensures that cloudless skies and unrelenting heat. Many visitors will see their original enthusiasm Wilt under these conditions. Here Are some tips to make your visit to Ephesus More enjoyable. A arrive in the Early morning. Summer temperatures in this part of Turkey usually exceed 90 degrees by midday. The area s Stone columns and Marble facades do nothing to deflect heat. A dress appropriately. A hat and Sun screen Are musts. The landscape features Only a few scrubby Trees. There Are no shaded areas. A Wear comfortable shoes. The ephesians walked on Stone. So will you. A carry bottled water or fruit juice. Refreshment stands Are located at both ends of the ancient site but it can take 45 minutes to walk directly from one to the other. Prices for bottled water and soft drinks at the. Stands equate to those at cafes outlets. A plan bathroom trips. The Public toilets in Ephesus during romans times Are now Only a tourist attraction. The Only modern facilities open to visitors Are located at the Entrance and exit Gates. A avoid taking Young children. There Are no play areas at Ephesus. In addition tramping on the mosaic tiles off the main Ephesus Roadway is prohibited. A take insect repellent. The ancient area is surrounded by hundreds of wildflowers that attract swarms of bees. A sting could make your trip to Ephesus memorable for the wrong reason. A , the second Century Hadrian s Temple one of the better preserved buildings in Ephesus the House of the Virgin Mary visitors to Ephesus can take a three mile Detour and see the House that reputedly was the Home of the Virgin Mary. Most tour buses that visit Ephesus make the journey by negotiating a twisting Pebble strewn Road up a Hill. There is no archaeological proof that the one room Stone House atop the Hill was inhabited by Mary but there is enough religious evidence to make Many christians believe that it was. According to the Bible Quot and fj6m that hour that disciple John took her Mary unto his own  John spent his last years in Ephesus. A German nun Anne Catherine Emmerich had visions of the House in 1821 and described it in detail although she had never visited it. Popes Paul i and John Paul ii both visited the House and confirmed its importance to the roman Catholic Church. The Stone Structure is anchored by Trees on each Corner of the dwelling. Inside visitors will find a Small altar with areas to Light candles on either Side. Outside visitors can drink from any of three faucets leading to underground Springs. According to legend drinking from the faucets will ensure health wealth and happiness. Visitors continue to observe a centuries old tradition of tying ribbons to Bushes along a path leading away from the House in the belief the gesture result in a wish coming True. A . W according to tradition this reconstructed site was the last Home of the Virgin  12, 1990 stripes Magazine 13