Friday the 24th and we are in the port of Kusadasi, Turkey. A private guide took us to Ephesus, the showplace of Aegean archaeology, an ancient reconstructed city.  This city grew from a seaside settlement to a powerful and sacred center. In 431 Mary was proclaimed the Mother of God here in this amazing place. Our guide, Cengiz Icten, is an expert in this field of excavation and was able to passionately share a private tour of the ruins, including a grand 1st century amphitheater, Library of Celsus, Turkish baths, the Hadrian Temple. We were able to then see the terrace homes of the wealthy citizens featuring mosaics, frescoes and marbles. It was truly an intimate day in this  magical place and now we can only dream of chariot races, gladiators, wild beasts and Ben Hur! Off to the bbq and dance party on the top deck!