Sirince Village

A charming hillside village

Sirince is approximately 8 kilometers from Selcuk and is known for cobblestone streets, traditional houses, fruit-flavored wines and local Aegean cuisine. It is an enjoyable trip after exploring Ephesus.

A short history

The village has a Greek Orthodox heritage and many surviving homes reflect the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. After the Greek-Turkish population exchange in the 1920s, Muslim families arriving from Greece settled here. The name Sirince replaced earlier names including Kirkinca and Cirkince.

Names and local legends

One story claims residents deliberately called the village Cirkince, meaning ugly, to keep outsiders away. Other accounts connect Kirkinca with early settlers. These are folk traditions rather than confirmed historical explanations.

The 2012 calendar story

Sirince drew unusual international attention when rumors surrounding the Maya calendar circulated in December 2012. Claims that the village would escape an apocalypse had no scientific basis, but the publicity boosted its visibility.

Historic streets and churches

Walk among whitewashed houses, tiled roofs and narrow lanes. St. John the Baptist Church reflects the village's religious heritage. Entry arrangements for historic buildings can vary.

Local wines and food

Shops sell grape wines and a variety of fruit-flavored wines. Traditional breakfasts commonly include olives, olive oil, vegetables, cheeses, jams, breads and tea. Not every item sold in the village is necessarily homemade or locally produced.

Shopping and viewpoints

Small shops offer soaps, herbs, jams, ceramics and souvenirs. Higher village lanes open onto views of the houses and countryside. The streets are steep in places, so wear comfortable shoes.

Nesin Mathematics Village

This educational community near Sirince hosts learning programs and events. It is not a conventional tourist attraction; check visitor access and schedules directly with the institution.

How to get there

The drive from Selcuk is typically around 15-20 minutes. Local minibuses connect Selcuk Bus Station with Sirince, but services vary. Visitors from Izmir can take transport to Selcuk and continue by minibus or taxi.

Best time and accommodation

Spring and autumn usually offer pleasant temperatures. Two to four hours is enough for a relaxed village walk and a meal. Ephesus Palace in Selcuk makes an excellent base for combining Sirince with Ephesus.