Highlights
- Small-group 2-day Ephesus archaeology package from Istanbul by flight-connected route
- Istanbul access links into the Kusadasi and Selcuk region without adding city sightseeing
- Ephesus Ancient City anchors the route with Roman streets, monuments and public spaces
- Terrace Houses add preserved residential rooms, mosaics and frescoes inside Ephesus
- Selcuk lunch stop keeps the Ephesus day close to the archaeological area
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum completes the package with original finds from the ancient city
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The 2-day structure gives the Ephesus visit more breathing room than a compressed same-day route.
- You can use Istanbul as the access point while keeping the sightseeing focused on Ephesus and Selcuk archaeology.
- The route combines public monuments, private residential spaces and museum artifacts in one clear sequence.
- Small-group pacing keeps the package organized while still centered on the main archaeological highlights.
Overview
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Day 1
Istanbul to Kusadasi / Selcuk Region
D
Reach the Selcuk or Kusadasi hotel area through the planned flight connection and local transfer.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Half DayKadikoy Hotel / Meeting Point PickupStart from the confirmed Kadikoy pickup point before continuing toward Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
Guests meet at the confirmed Kadikoy hotel or meeting point before continuing toward Sabiha Gokcen Airport for the flight-connected Ephesus package. Kadikoy is pickup context only.
Istanbul Airport (IST)Use the domestic flight connection toward Izmir.
Board the domestic flight from Istanbul Airport toward Izmir for the Ephesus archaeology route.
TicketsFlight ticket (Istanbul Airport (IST) to Izmir Airport (ADB)) IncludedIzmir Airport ArrivalArrive in Izmir and continue toward the local route or hotel area.
Arrive at Izmir Airport and continue by local transfer either toward the hotel area or directly into the archaeology route.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Overnight hotel check-in near Selcuk or Kusadasi.
Hotel check-in is arranged in the Selcuk or Kusadasi area before the guided archaeology route.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation IncludedHotel breakfast ExcludedHotel lunch ExcludedHotel dinner Included -
Day 2
Ephesus Archaeology Route: Terrace Houses & Museum
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Different tour end?
Follow the core archaeology route through Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, a lunch stop near Selcuk and the Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
This Day Physical Rating: Relaxed This Day Intensity: Short
Celsus Library Angled Stone View 
Celsus Library Cultural Stone Detail 
Celsus Library Restored Marble Front 
Celsus Library Cultural Marble Landmark 
Celsus Library Detailed Facade Scene 
Heracles Gate Stone Pillars in Ephesus 
Nike Relief in Ephesus Ancient City 
Temple of Hadrian Historic Relief 
Terrace Houses Protected Stone Path 
Terrace Houses Cultural Room Detail Hotel Check-out / DepartureLeave the hotel and begin the archaeology route.
After check-out, continue directly into the local archaeology route.
Ephesus Ancient CityWalk the main archaeological core of ancient Ephesus.
Ephesus Ancient City is the main archaeological stop, with marble streets, public buildings and monumental remains that define the route.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 IncludedEphesus Ancient City is the main archaeological destination on the second day after the Istanbul flight and overnight stage. The visit follows marble streets, public buildings, sacred areas, fountains, the theatre and the Library of Celsus facade.
The site should be read as a living ancient city rather than a set of separate monuments. Paving, inscriptions, water channels and public spaces show how people moved, gathered, worshipped and worked in Ephesus.
Questions
Why is Ephesus Ancient City the main stop from Istanbul?
<p>Ephesus is the main archaeological focus because its streets, theatre, public buildings, sacred spaces and Library of Celsus facade create the core ancient city experience after the flight-based route.</p>What should I notice in Ephesus?
<p>Notice paving, inscriptions, water channels, building lines and public spaces. These details explain how Ephesus was organized and used.</p>
Terrace HousesSee the preserved Roman residences of Ephesus.
Terrace Houses reveal the private Roman side of Ephesus through decorated rooms, mosaics and frescoes.
Entrance FeesTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 IncludedTerrace Houses add the residential side of Ephesus to the route. This protected area preserves mosaics, frescoes, courtyards, stairways and room divisions from Roman homes beside the public streets.
The details bring private life into view. Painted walls, floor patterns and visible building layers explain household organization, daily ease, taste and social status.
Questions
Why are Terrace Houses included?
<p>The Terrace Houses show private Roman residential life inside Ephesus through mosaics, frescoes, courtyards, stairways and room layouts.</p>What makes Terrace Houses valuable?
<p>They reveal domestic life, decoration, daily ease and social status through preserved wall paintings, mosaic floors and construction layers.</p>
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LPause near Selcuk during the sightseeing flow.
The lunch stop is placed near Selcuk to keep the local sightseeing flow practical before the museum visit.
MealsLunch meal IncludedLunch Stop in Selcuk gives the Ephesus day a practical local pause close to the archaeological area. Selcuk sits beside the ancient city, so the stop fits naturally between the site, Terrace Houses and museum.
Depending on the venue, meals may include Aegean-style olive oil dishes, seasonal vegetables, salads, soups, grilled options, bread and regional sides.
Questions
Why is lunch taken near Selcuk?
<p>Selcuk is beside Ephesus, making it a practical place for a meal pause between the archaeological site, Terrace Houses and museum. Exact venue and menu details may vary.</p>Ephesus Archaeological MuseumAdd museum context through key finds from Ephesus.
The Ephesus Archaeological Museum adds preserved statues, reliefs, coins and daily-life finds that deepen the site visit.
Entrance FeesEphesus Archaeological Museum , €10 IncludedEphesus Archaeological Museum completes the route with original finds from Ephesus and nearby Selcuk. Sculpture, inscriptions, Artemis-related pieces, coins and daily-use artifacts add close-up context after the ancient city and Terrace Houses.
The museum connects the ruins with people, belief, craftsmanship and everyday life, creating a focused cultural finish before the return flight connection.
Questions
How does Ephesus Archaeological Museum complete the route?
<p>The museum displays original finds from Ephesus and Selcuk, adding context through sculpture, inscriptions, Artemis-related objects, coins and daily-life artifacts.</p>Which museum pieces connect best with the site?
<p>Statues, inscriptions, Artemis-related displays, coins and everyday pieces connect especially well with Ephesus Ancient City and the Terrace Houses.</p>
Izmir Airport (ADB)Use the return flight connection from Izmir.
Return to Izmir Airport for the final flight connection back to Istanbul.
TicketsFlight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Istanbul Airport (IST)) IncludedIstanbul Airport ArrivalArrive back in Istanbul and continue to the final endpoint.
Arrive back at Istanbul Airport and continue to the final drop-off point if required.
Kadikoy Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?End at the confirmed Kadikoy drop-off point after the Istanbul return connection.
The package finishes with drop-off at the confirmed Kadikoy point after the return connection to Istanbul. Return movement follows product and flight details.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast IncludedHotel dinner Excluded
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Reach out to our travel experts.
What's Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal.
- Ephesus Ancient City.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus.
- Ephesus Archaeological Museum.
- Day 1: Flight ticket (Istanbul Airport (IST) to Izmir Airport (ADB)).
- Day 2: Flight ticket (Izmir Airport (ADB) to Istanbul Airport (IST)).
- Licensed professional tour guide.
- Air-conditioned tour vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Hotel or meeting point pick-up and drop-off.
- Airport transfers.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Day 1: Hotel Breakfast meal, Hotel Lunch meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Dinner meal.
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.
Informations
- Please wear comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing.
- Please dress according to the season and weather conditions.
- Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended in sunny weather.
- Bring water, especially on hot days.
- Cameras are welcome, but tripods may not be permitted in some museums and archaeological sites.
- Guests should watch their step at all times to avoid injuries.
- Please check the weather forecast before your tour.
- Please bring your passport or ID card.
- This tour involves walking on uneven and cobblestone surfaces.
- The exact pick-up time will be confirmed after booking.
- The tour route may be adjusted due to weather, traffic, or site conditions.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Please be ready at your confirmed pick-up or meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time.
Your Peace of Mind Options
Cancellation Policy
A transparent overview of applicable fees.
Tour Reminder!
You can create a reminder for yourself for this tour. We will send you a reminder e-mail/sms about this tour on the date you specify.
FAQs
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What does this 2-day Ephesus package from Istanbul include in the route?
This small-group package is built around Istanbul hotel or meeting-point pickup, an Istanbul to Izmir flight connection, overnight logistics in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area, and a second-day Ephesus archaeology route. The sightseeing focus is Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, a Selcuk lunch stop and Ephesus Archaeological Museum before the return airport transfer and Istanbul drop-off. -
Is this a small-group Ephesus tour from Istanbul by flight?
Yes. The main service model is a small-group 2-day Ephesus archaeology package from Istanbul by flight, designed for travelers who want to reach the Ephesus region without a long road journey from Istanbul. -
Which Istanbul pickup areas are available for this tour?
Active pickup areas for this tour include Sultanahmet, Taksim, Beyoglu, Besiktas, Ortakoy, Sisli / Nisantasi, Karakoy / Galata, Eminonu / Sirkeci, Kadikoy and Uskudar. Pickup-area changes may affect the final price slightly depending on distance or route setup. -
Are domestic flight details handled inside this package?
The route uses Istanbul Airport and Izmir Airport connections. Ticket handling, baggage details and timing should be checked in your confirmed booking information because flight logistics can depend on availability and selected package setup. -
Does this tour include an overnight stay near Ephesus?
The route includes hotel check-in in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area before the Ephesus sightseeing day. Exact hotel inclusion, category, room type and check-in details should be checked in the confirmed package information. -
Is the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee included in this group tour?
Yes. For this small-group package, the Ephesus Ancient City entrance fee is marked as included in the tour fee setup. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
Is the Terrace Houses entrance fee included in this tour?
Yes. Terrace Houses of Ephesus is part of this route and its entrance fee is marked as included for this small-group package. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15. -
Is the Ephesus Archaeological Museum entrance fee included?
Yes. Ephesus Archaeological Museum is included in the sightseeing route and its entrance fee is marked as included in this small-group package. Ephesus Archaeological Museum entry fee is €10. -
Is this tour suitable for travelers who want Terrace Houses and the museum together?
Yes. This route specifically combines Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses and Ephesus Archaeological Museum, so it suits travelers who want a deeper archaeology-focused Ephesus experience rather than only a short ancient-city visit. -
Is Istanbul used only as the logistics point?
Yes. Istanbul is used as the departure and return logistics point for pickup, airport transfer and drop-off. The travel experience of this tour is focused on the Ephesus region. -
Is lunch part of the route?
Yes, the route includes a lunch stop in Selcuk during the Ephesus sightseeing day. Menu style, meal inclusion and dietary details should be checked in the confirmed booking information. -
Can this tour be booked online with a credit card?
Yes. Tours on this site can be booked online, including credit-card payment, so travelers can reserve the package before arriving in Turkey. -
Who is this 2-day Ephesus package best for?
It is best for Istanbul-based travelers who want a compact Ephesus archaeology package with flight-connected logistics, overnight organization near the region, and a route focused on Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses and the museum.
General FAQs
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Is Ephesus a good shore excursion from Kusadasi port?
Yes. Ephesus is one of the most popular and efficient day trips from Kusadasi.
- The drive is usually short compared to many other ports.
- We plan the route around your ship timing and keep a safe return buffer.
- Early starts help avoid heat and heavy crowds in peak season.
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How do cruise shore excursions work (meeting point and return time)?
Shore excursions are built around your ships docking schedule.
- We confirm a clear meeting point close to the port exit.
- We recommend a comfortable buffer before all-aboard time.
- If your ship uses tender boats, allow extra time and tell us your tender details.
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Where is Ephesus located and what is it close to?
Ephesus is an ancient city near Selcuk on Turkeys Aegean coast.
- The closest main cruise port town is Kusadasi.
- Izmir is the nearest major city and transport hub.
- Many day tours combine Ephesus with nearby stops based on your available time.
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Can I visit Ephesus from Izmir port in one day?
Yes, but it is a longer drive than from Kusadasi.
- Timing must be planned carefully to avoid rushing.
- If your port stay is short, we may recommend an Izmir-focused program instead.
- Share your ship schedule and we will suggest the most realistic plan.
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What are the must-see highlights inside Ephesus?
Ephesus is a large open-air archaeological site with world-famous monuments.
- Library of Celsus and Curetes Street.
- Great Theatre and main marble streets.
- Key public areas such as agoras, baths, and temples depending on route and time.
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Should I add the Terrace Houses in Ephesus?
The Terrace Houses offer a closer look at Roman-era homes, mosaics, and frescoes.
- This visit usually requires extra time and is often a separate ticket.
- If you love details, art, and interiors, it is a great upgrade.
- For cruise days with limited time, we can advise if it fits comfortably.
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How much walking is there at Ephesus?
Ephesus involves a lot of walking on stone surfaces and open paths.
- Paths can be uneven and can feel slippery when wet.
- There are gentle slopes and limited shade in some areas.
- If you have mobility concerns, tell us and we can suggest the best route or alternatives.
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What should I wear for an Ephesus tour?
Comfort and sun protection make a big difference.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen in warm months.
- Carry water, especially in summer and on cruise days.
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When is the best time to visit Ephesus?
Ephesus can be visited year-round, but the experience changes by season.
- Spring and autumn are comfortable for long outdoor visits.
- Summer is hotter and busier, so early starts are recommended.
- Winter has fewer crowds but cooler weather and occasional rain.
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Is Ephesus crowded and how do we avoid peak crowds?
Ephesus is very popular, especially in summer and on cruise days.
- Starting early is the best way to reduce crowds and heat.
- We can adjust stop order based on ship traffic and site flow.
- Weekends and holidays can be busier.
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Do I need to buy Ephesus tickets in advance?
In peak season, planning helps avoid delays, but rules can change.
- Some areas may have separate tickets.
- Starting early is often more important than pre-buying.
- On guided tours, we plan entry timing to keep the day smooth.
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Should I add the House of Virgin Mary to my tour?
It is a meaningful stop for many visitors and can be added based on timing.
- It is a short drive from Ephesus.
- It can be busier at certain times, so we plan the order carefully.
- If your cruise time is limited, we will suggest a realistic priority list.
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Is Sirince village worth visiting from Ephesus?
Sirince is a small hillside village near Selcuk and is often added for variety.
- It is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, small cafes, and local products.
- It works well if you want something beyond ruins.
- We add it only when it fits safely with your return schedule.
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Can I combine Ephesus with Pamukkale in one day?
It is usually too long for a comfortable day, especially for cruise schedules.
- Pamukkale is a longer drive and needs more time on site.
- For a better experience, consider an overnight plan.
- If you share your exact timing, we can advise what is realistic.
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Can I combine Ephesus with Pergamon on the same day?
It is usually not recommended for a single day from Kusadasi.
- Pergamon is closer to Izmir than to Kusadasi.
- Doing both can feel rushed and increases return-time risk.
- If you have extra days, plan them on separate days for a better experience.
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What if my ship docks late or departs earlier than planned?
Ship schedules can change, and we plan with buffer time.
- If you receive an updated schedule, message us immediately.
- We can shorten or adjust the route while keeping key highlights.
- Our priority is always a safe, on-time return to port.
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Private tour or group tour: what is better for Ephesus?
For cruise travelers, private tours are often the most comfortable option.
- Private tours allow flexible pace, timing, and photo stops.
- Group tours can be good value, but timing is less flexible.
- We can recommend the best option based on your ship schedule and preferences.
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Is Ephesus suitable for seniors or limited mobility?
It depends on comfort level, as the site is large and mostly outdoors.
- There are uneven stones and some slopes.
- We can select a route that reduces walking where possible.
- Please tell us about mobility needs in advance so we can plan correctly.
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Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Visa requirements depend on your passport and may change.
- Please check the latest official entry rules for your nationality before travel.
- Many visitors use an e-Visa when eligible for short tourist stays.
- If you share your passport country, we can guide you to the correct official source to verify.
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What currency is used in Turkey?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY).
- ATMs are common in Kusadasi, Selcuk, and Izmir.
- Cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small purchases and tips.
- Keep small bills for convenience.
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Are credit cards accepted in Kusadasi and around Ephesus?
Cards are accepted in many restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- Small vendors and some taxis may prefer cash.
- For markets and quick purchases, cash is helpful.
- Keep a backup payment option, especially on busy port days.
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Is tap water safe to drink in Turkey?
Many travelers prefer bottled water.
- Bottled water is easy to find and inexpensive.
- If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid ice in unknown places.
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Is tipping common in Turkey?
Tipping is common and appreciated for good service.
- Restaurants: rounding up or leaving a small amount is typical.
- Guides and drivers: optional and based on service quality.
- Carry small notes for convenience.
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What plug type and voltage are used in Turkey?
Turkey typically uses Type C and Type F plugs (220V, 50Hz).
- Bring an adapter if your plug type is different.
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How can I get a SIM or eSIM in Turkey?
SIM and eSIM options are available from major operators.
- Official stores usually require passport registration.
- If you only need data, compare short-term packages.
- Download offline maps if you plan to explore independently.
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Do Ephesus and museums have closure days or seasonal hours?
Opening hours can change by season and some venues may have weekly closure days.
- Public holidays can also affect schedules.
- Some venues have different winter and summer hours.
- We plan visits based on current opening information.
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Can I take photos inside Ephesus and museums?
Photography rules vary by venue.
- Outdoor ruins usually allow photos.
- Some museums restrict flash or photography in certain areas.
- Always follow posted rules and staff instructions.
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What is ship time vs local time and why does it matter?
Some cruise ships keep ship time different from local Turkey time.
- Always confirm whether your port schedule is in ship time or local time.
- Tell us what your cruise line uses so we plan pickups correctly.
- This helps avoid confusion on meeting points and return timing.
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Is Turkey safe for cruise travelers and day tour guests?
Tourist areas like Kusadasi and major sites are used to international visitors.
- Use normal precautions in crowded places near the port and markets.
- Stick to licensed transport and agreed meeting points.
- Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying unnecessary cash.
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What can I do in Kusadasi if I skip Ephesus?
If you prefer a lighter day, there are good alternatives.
- Explore Kusadasi town and waterfront.
- Consider local food stops and shopping areas.
- We can suggest a shorter cultural route depending on your time in port.
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Should I carry my passport during port days?
We recommend keeping your passport safely on the ship or at your accommodation and carrying a copy if needed.
- A phone photo plus a printed copy is usually enough for day trips.
- For buying a SIM, you may need the original passport at the store.
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What is the emergency number in Turkey?
Dial 112 for emergencies (medical, police, fire, and urgent situations).
- If you are on a guided day, inform your guide so we can help quickly.
Good to Know
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Check your confirmed flight and baggage details
The route uses domestic airport connections between Istanbul and Izmir. Review the confirmed booking information for flight timing, baggage allowance and airport meeting details before travel. -
Expect archaeological walking on uneven surfaces
Ephesus Ancient City and Terrace Houses involve stone streets, steps and uneven ground. Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended. -
Hotel details should be confirmed before arrival
The route includes an overnight logistics flow in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area, but hotel category, room setup and exact inclusion details should be checked in the confirmed package information. -
Prepare for sun and open-air sightseeing
The Ephesus route includes open-air archaeological areas with limited shade in some sections. Bring water, sun protection and a hat in warm seasons. -
Pickup area can affect logistics
Sultanahmet, Taksim, Beyoglu, Besiktas, Ortakoy, Sisli / Nisantasi, Karakoy / Galata, Eminonu / Sirkeci, Kadikoy and Uskudar are active pickup areas, and the selected area may affect route timing or final price slightly.
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