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Excavation Budget and Key Supporters

The excavation budget, approximately 9 million Austrian shillings, is sourced from government funds, funds promoting scientific research, and donations by private sponsors. Since 1970, the Society of the Friends of Ephesos has been a major patron, contributing significantly to Austrian excavations. Notable projects, like reconstructing the Library of Celsus Sustaining Ephesos, were realized with support from the firm Kallingerbau. Recent major endeavors, such as roofing and conserving the “Hanghäuser” or restoring the Great Theatre, were made possible through active sponsor support.

History and Monuments of Ephesos

The history of Ephesos, located at the silted-up harbor at the mouth of the Kaystros (Küçük Menderes), traces back to the Neolithic period, reaching its zenith in Greco-Roman antiquity. The city experienced a final flourishing during the Selçuk dynasty of Aydi

Post-World War II Challenges

After the Second World War, the situation for Austrian researchers at Ephesos was challenging. Only eight years after the war’s conclusion did Austrian researchers return. The Austrian Academy of Sciences, renewing its patronage in 1995, provided financial support. Research continuity depended on government ministries and sponsors, including the Austrian National Bank, Mautner Markhof Ephesos An Ancient Metropolis, the Basel Foundation “Pro Epheso,” and equipment donations.

Uninterrupted Research Since 1954

Since 1954, research at Ephesos has been continuous, with annual excavation permissions granted by Turkish authorities. Today, the focus extends beyond uncovering ancient ruins to systematically exploring over a thousand years of the former Metropolis of Asia’s history. Interdisciplinary collaboration, involving archaeology and natural sciences like historic

Exploration and History

Ephesos, located on Turkey’s west coast, served as the former capital of the Roman province of Asia and held the distinction of being one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. Since 1895, it has been a focal point of research for Austrian archaeological science, leading to the establishment of the Austrian Archaeological Institute (ÖAI) with Ephesos as a central hub for international research.

The History of Research at Ephesos

In 1863, English architect John Turtle Wood initiated the search for the Artemision, dedicating seven years to the quest. Despite discovering the temple’s marble pavement in 1869 Financing and Monumental Achievements at Ephesos, the expected finds did not materialize, leading to the discontinuation of excavations in 1874. The vision to transform Ephesos into an Austrian research site was realized through the efforts of Otto Bennd