"The glow and beauty of the stars are nothing near the splendid moon
When in her roundness she burns silver about the world . . ."
from a fragment of a poem by Sappho (circa 615 - 562 BC).
This photo was taken in Summer 2004 when Mars was at its closest to the earth for many years. By a happy astronomical coincidence it appeared to rise with the full moon, whose brightness still did not dim that of the red planet.
The Turkish mountain is Samsun Dagi (in Greek Mount Mykele) on the Dilek Peninsula, around 2 km away. The countryside, coast and beaches from Kuşadası to the Dilek National Park are famed for being the most beautifui in Ionia. On the other side of the mountain is the ancient city of Priene.
In summer (April - October) there are daily ferries from Vathi (Samos town) and Pithagorio to the Turkish seaside resort Kuşadası. The current fares are: single 35 Euro, day return 40 Euro, open return 50 Euro. The ferry departs from Pithagorio at 8.30 am and from Kuşadası at 5 pm. Schedules and fares are subject to change, so it is best to ask at the respective port when you get there.
A day return to Kuşadası should give you enough time to visit the fascinating remains of the ancient Greek city Ephesus which is 18 km (11 miles) northeast. More ambitious exploration of Turkey's Ionian coast will take longer.
If you are travelling from Greece to Turkey you may need a visa which you can get on arrival, usually for a fee. See our introduction to Turkey for further information.
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photo: © David John |
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