Ephesus is one of the most beautiful ancient cities in the world. It formed a focal point in the ancient world because of its protected harbor and as a starting point for the Royal Road via Sardis to Susa. It was also a cult centre attracting thousands of pilgrims for traditional worship of the female, Cybele, Artemis and finally the Virgin Mary in the Christian period. The Artemis Temple was one of the Seven Wonders of the World and located in Ephesus.