EPHESUS 🐟 “The Fish Jumped, the Boar Fled… and Civilization  Began!”

From Myth to Plate, from Pan to History— Welcome to Ephesus

Tugba YAZICI

Imagine a city where one of the world’s first billboards stands, where the first love stories were written, where the goddess Artemis once reigned, and the clashing swords of gladiators echoed through marble streets.

Where is this magical place? It’s none other than Ephesus, the stunningly historic town nestled in the Aegean region of Turkey.

But wait — the city’s origin story is just as captivating as its present-day splendor. Allow me to take you on a mythic journey filled with prophecy, laughter, and a bit of smoke from a fish pan.

A City Born of Fire, Fat, and Prophecy

Ephesus was founded on a classic trio: fire, oil, and prophecy.

Androklos, the adventurous son of Codrus, the King of Athens, sets out to build a city. But not on a whim — first, he seeks the guidance of the gods. He consults the Oracle of Delphi, and the message he receives is crystal clear:

“The fish will jump, the boar will flee — and there you shall build a glorious city.

Now, we’ve all had that moment: the fish jumps out of the pan, something catches fire — usually my arm in my case! But for Androklos, this minor kitchen mishap alters the course of history.

Here’s how:

While camped near the Küçük Menderes (Cayster) Delta, Androklos and his men begin frying the fish they caught. Suddenly, one fish leaps out of the pan and ignites nearby dry grass. The flames scare a wild boar, which bolts from the bushes.

Bingo — the prophecy is fulfilled. 🎯

Androklos chases the boar and founds Ephesus right where he catches it.

But There’s Another Side to the Story…

Like all great myths, this one has an alternate version.

Some legends say Ephesus wasn’t founded by Androklos at all, but by warrior women — the Amazons.

Yes, you read that right: women in armor, on horseback, firing arrows.

According to this tale, the Amazons named the land “Arzawa” and laid the first stones of the city. Who knows — maybe the powerful feminine energy that radiates from the Temple of Artemis traces back to them.

Ephesus — A Poem Written in Stone

Even its founding story reads like a work of art. Ephesus isn’t just an ancient city; it’s a poem etched into the surface of time.

As you walk through its ruins, you don’t just touch stone — you touch time itself.

My Personal Experience: A Night at the Museum

When I heard that Ephesus now offers night museum tours, I knew I had to go. So I made a short getaway recently — and it was simply breathtaking. Ephesus is a compact archaeological gem, and the locals are warm and welcoming. Every corner of the town smells of history. My photos will say more about the magical ambiance than words ever could.

I also learned that classical music concerts are held in the ancient ruins. Next time I go, I’ll definitely aim to attend one.

A dog who loves archaeology and I are exploring the ruins🥰

And if you’re wondering where to stay — my recommendation is the Ayasoluk Hotel. It’s cozy, charming, and feels just like home. https://www.ayasolukhotel.com

I  would like to thank our wonderful guide, dear Kadriye Önal, who showed us the ruins of Ephesus; her beautiful narration made Ephesus even more beautiful.

  What To Do in Ephesus

                •              Stand in the ancient theatre, close your eyes, and imagine the voices of philosophers and gladiators echoing through the centuries.

                •              Watch the sunlight disappear behind the elegant columns of the Library of Celsus.

                •              Or picture whispered prayers to the goddess in the shadows of the Temple of Artemis.

To me, Ephesus isn’t an open-air museum.

It’s a living fairytale.

And to carry a piece of that fairytale with me, I picked up an antique brass bracelet from the museum shop. The design is gorgeous, yes — but what truly moved me was the Latin inscription carved into it:

“Character is destiny.”

It felt made just for me — a message I needed to hear. Now it rests on my wrist, walking with me, much like my character does…

Cats of Ephesus☺️

A Word of Warning

So, if one day while frying fish by the sea, a wild boar suddenly darts past you — stay alert. You just might be laying the foundation for the next great civilization. You never know!

Just remember:

Every great city begins with a little imagination, a dash of prophecy, and a lot of fire.

And in this story, the fire came with a fish. 🐟🔥

Inspired by this myth, I created one of my latest artworks, titled:

“I Caught a Big Fish”

“I Caught a Big Fish” / Tugba YAZICI

Because hey — inspiration doesn’t come in pill form.

You have to travel, read, explore, and reflect.

The rest is up to you. 💫

Until next time,

Tugba YAZICI

Multidisciplinary Artist & Producer

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