Ephesus: The Wonder and the Questions

Standing among the ruins of Ephesus in Turkey, I was overwhelmed by what human beings had accomplished nearly two thousand years ago.

Europe Travel Crew

I looked at the towering columns, the marble streets, and the remains of magnificent buildings and wondered how they had done it. Without electricity, modern machinery, or the technology we take for granted, they had created an extraordinary city.

Library of Celsus in Ephesus

I was in awe of their ingenuity.

But as I walked through Ephesus, another thought began to occupy my mind.

What did it take to build all of this?

Who were the people who hauled those enormous stones, carved the intricate details, and spent years constructing these magnificent buildings? What were their lives like? Did they take pride in their work? Were they fairly compensated? Did they have a choice?

I found myself admiring what they had created while wondering about the people whose lives made it possible.

And then another question occurred to me.

When future generations look back at our civilization, what will they admire? And what will they question?

Will they marvel at our technology, our buildings, and our accomplishments while wondering about the human cost of our progress?

I don't know the answers. But standing in Ephesus reminded me that there's often much more to a beautiful accomplishment than what we can see.

Cat and dogs were everywhere in Ephesus

Overlooking one small part of Ephesus

I guess you just gotta let sleeping dogs lie. Ephesus 2026