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Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis

Step into the ancient world on a day trip to Ephesus from Marmaris! This unforgettable journey takes you to one of the world’s best-preserved ancient cities, offering a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking sights.

Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
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Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

Overview

Step into the past with a captivating day trip from Marmaris to the awe-inspiring ancient city of Ephesus. This full-day adventure invites you to explore one of the world’s best-preserved classical cities, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking sights. From the grandeur of Roman architecture to serene spiritual landmarks, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through time.

Your experience begins with a scenic drive through the Turkish countryside, where rolling hills and picturesque landscapes set the tone for the day. Sit back and relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as our professional guide shares insights about the rich history and culture of the region. A light breakfast box will be provided on board to ensure you’re energized for the day ahead.

Upon arrival in Selçuk, you’ll step into Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved ruins that offer a glimpse into ancient Roman life. As you walk along the marble-paved streets, your guide will bring history to life with captivating stories of this once-thriving metropolis. Highlights include the majestic Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theatre, which could seat up to 25,000 spectators in its heyday. Every corner of this ancient city is steeped in history, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

The journey continues to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. While only fragments of this once-magnificent structure remain, its significance and the tales surrounding it are awe-inspiring. Imagine the grandeur of a temple dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of the hunt and fertility, as you stand amidst its historic ruins.

No visit to Ephesus is complete without a stop at the House of the Virgin Mary, a peaceful stone structure believed to be the final home of Mary, mother of Jesus. Perched atop Mt. Koressos, this sacred site is revered by both Christians and Muslims and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer. Surrounded by lush greenery, the House of the Virgin Mary is a spiritual haven that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

For a modern twist, you’ll also visit the Experience Museum in Ephesus, where interactive exhibits and immersive displays recreate daily life in Roman times. From bustling markets to artisan workshops, this innovative museum bridges the gap between past and present, making it an engaging stop for families and history buffs alike.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy delicious Turkish cuisine during a buffet-style lunch at a local restaurant, giving you the opportunity to savor the flavors of the region. After a day filled with exploration and discovery, relax during the comfortable drive back to Marmaris, reflecting on the unforgettable memories you’ve made.

Whether you’re a lover of ancient history, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone who enjoys discovering new cultures, this tour offers a truly enriching experience. Ephesus await, immerse yourself in its timeless charm and uncover the wonders of Turkey’s remarkable past.

Select date, participants and language

Adult x 1, Child x 0 , Infant x 0

Adult

Age 12-25+

Child

Age 6-11

Infant

Age 0-5

Excursion Itinerary

Icmeler
Start Activities

Bus / coach (Transfer)
Duration: 1 Hour

Begin your day with a convenient hotel pickup in an air-conditioned bus, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.


Breakfast Stop in Mugla
Breakfast,
Duration: 30 Mins

A delightful breakfast, served as a lunchbox on the bus, has been arranged for your convenience and is included in the tour price.


Bus / coach (Transfer)
Duration: 2 Hours

We will embark on a two-hour drive to Selçuk, home to the remarkable remains of the ancient city of Ephesus.


Selçuk
Break time, Visit,
Duration: 30 Mins

Upon arriving in Selçuk, we will take a short break at a local café, where you can use the restrooms (not available inside Ephesus), try local delicacies, and prepare for exploring the ancient city.


Ephesus Ancient City
Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 2 Hours , Extra Fee

The visit will last for two hours, offering a walk through the history of one of humanity's greatest ancient civilizations, enriched by captivating stories and historical insights from our guide.


Ephesus Experience Museum
Visit,
Duration: 20 Mins Optional

The Ephesus Experience Museum brings ancient history to life with interactive exhibits and immersive displays, offering a modern way to explore the daily life and culture of Roman times.


Lunch Break in Selcuk
Break time, Lunch,
Duration: 45 Mins

The excursion includes a lunch break at a local restaurant, where participants can savor freshly prepared local dishes, offering a relaxing interlude to enjoy between sightseeing activities.


The Temple of Artemis
Visit, Guided tour,
Duration: 30 Mins

The Temple of Artemis, known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, celebrated for its grandeur, design, and historical significance. Visitors today can explore its captivating ruins.


House of Virgin Mary
Visit, Guided tour, Sightseeing,
Duration: 1 Hour Optional, Extra Fee

The final stop is the House of the Virgin Mary, a sacred site believed to be her final residence, before we journey back to Marmaris.


Bus / coach (Transfer)
Duration: 3 Hours

At the end of the day, enjoy a comfortable 3-hour drive back to Marmaris, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the tour.


Icmeler
Finish Activities

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Walk along the marble streets of the ancient city of Ephesus.
  • Visit the serene House of the Virgin Mary atop Mt. Koressos.
  • Marvel at the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, a Wonder of the Ancient World.
  • Enjoy scenic countryside views and a delicious Turkish lunch.
  • Learn the rich history of Ephesus from professional guides.

What's Included and What's Not?

Included

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Air-conditioned transport for a comfortable journey
  • Professional tour guide
  • Visits to Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis, and the House of the Virgin Mary
  • Delicious Turkish lunch and breakfast box
  • Local taxes and parking fees

Not Included

  • Entrance fees to historical sites
  • Drinks during meals

Not Suitable For This Activities

  • People with mobility impairments

Not Allowed This Activities

  • Alcohol and drugs

Important Information

What to Bring

Camera
Cash
Passport or ID card for children
Sun hat
Sunscreen

Information Before Booking

  • Entrance fees are excluded, but skip-the-line tickets are available.
  • Be prepared for at least two hours of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • The journey includes rest stops for your comfort.
  • The journey from Marmaris to Ephesus is approximately three hours each way, making for a full-day commitment. However, the comfortable transportation and enriching experiences make it worthwhile for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Know Before You Go

  • This tour requires a minimum of 2 hours walking. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sun cream, and bring an umbrella (for sun or rain depending on the season).
  • Bring your camera, but please note that tripods are not allowed at Ephesus.
  • Entrance fees are excluded (Your guide will have skip-the-line tickets for Ephesus, so you will skip long ticket lines)
  • Restroom breaks are scheduled outside historical sites.

4.8/5

32
Reviews

About This Activity

Free Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Reserve Now & Pay Later

Keep your travel plans flexible - book your spot and pay nothing today

Duration 12  Hours

Check availability to see starting times.

Live Tour Guide

English, Russian, Turkish

Pickup Optional

Most hotels have strict privacy policies. Please meet us at the main entrance of your hotel, not at the reception.

Location

Icmeler Türkiye

Book Today

From

€30.00

per person

Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

Brenda Scott -
10 June

The trip was thoroughly enjoyable! The historical site and the nearby town were both beautiful. A surprise highlight was the visit to the artisan workshop before arriving at Ephesus—it was a lovely addition. Sultan Nur did a fantastic job as our guide, making the whole experience even better.

María Cristina Navarro -
02 June

Icmeler: Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

Nur was a fantastic guide—warm, approachable, and full of interesting information. This was our second day trip with Hektor this week, and once again it didn’t disappoint. The food was great, and the coach was comfortably air-conditioned. I’d gladly recommend Hektor for day tours.

See More Reviews

Customer Reviews

All reviews are from verified customers who purchased the activity. Reviews can only be submitted after the activity takes place.

Overall Rating

4.8/5

Based on 32 Reviews

Guide

5.0/5

Transportation

4.9/5

Value for Money

4.9/5

By Traveler Types
By star rating
B
Brenda Scott - -
10 June

The trip was thoroughly enjoyable! The historical site and the nearby town were both beautiful. A surprise highlight was the visit to the artisan workshop before arriving at Ephesus—it was a lovely addition. Sultan Nur did a fantastic job as our guide, making the whole experience even better.

Helpful? Yes

W
Wanda Martin - -
07 June

Sultan led a fantastic tour—her explanations were clear, knowledgeable, and packed with interesting insights. I would definitely recommend joining this tour. One small downside was that the terraced houses weren’t part of the itinerary, but that gives me a good reason to come back again.

Helpful? Yes

M
María Cristina Navarro - -
02 June
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

Nur was a fantastic guide—warm, approachable, and full of interesting information. This was our second day trip with Hektor this week, and once again it didn’t disappoint. The food was great, and the coach was comfortably air-conditioned. I’d gladly recommend Hektor for day tours.

Helpful? Yes

D
Daisy Wright - -
01 June
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

I had a fantastic experience exploring Ephesus. Our guide, Nur, was excellent—her deep knowledge really added value to the tour. The ancient ruins were truly impressive, and the digital museum at the end was a perfect highlight. This is definitely a destination worth seeing.

Helpful? Yes

V
Vincenzo Costa - -
27 May
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

A wonderful day out , fantastic scenery, good good & Sultan was a fabulous host who was very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend.

Helpful? Yes

C
Caspar Böhm - -
20 May

I arranged this tour the evening before through GetYourGuide. After booking, I reached out via WhatsApp and quickly received details about the pickup time. Communication was smooth from start to finish. The day begins early if you're coming from Marmaris, but it's definitely worthwhile if you have an interest in ancient history. Our guide, Nur, was outstanding—she was engaging, knowledgeable, and spoke very clear English. Breakfast was included (simple but sufficient), and lunch was served buffet-style, which was quite enjoyable. The day started with a stop at a ceramics workshop, then we headed to Ephesus where Nur guided us throughout the site. Afterward, we had lunch, visited the Virgin Mary shrine, and finished the day at a Turkish Delight store. The coach was clean and comfortable, offering plenty of legroom and good air conditioning. Overall, it was a well-organized experience, and I really appreciate Nur’s excellent guidance.

Helpful? Yes

L
Leo Simpson - -
14 May
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

Ephesus was truly impressive, and Beste was a fantastic guide—she walked us through the site while sharing detailed historical insights. I would absolutely recommend this tour to anyone interested in exploring this remarkable location.

Helpful? Yes

S
Sandra Wright - -
09 May

It was a fantastic day with plenty of fascinating stops along the way. Beste was a kind and engaging guide who made the experience even better. The heat was intense, so staying hydrated was definitely essential!

Helpful? Yes

P
Pavla Holíková - -
01 May
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

Our visit to Ephesus was truly fantastic. Beste, our guide, was simply outstanding, and we are very grateful for her care and attention. From start to finish, we felt warmly welcomed and well supported. She showed great expertise and enthusiasm about both the region and the Ephesus ruins. Although it was a full-day tour, the pace was comfortable, and we never felt hurried. Many thanks to the whole team for such a memorable experience. I would definitely recommend this trip!

Helpful? Yes

M
Maya Pauwels - -
22 April

We enjoyed a fantastic day! The entire experience was truly wonderful. Beste, our tour guide, took great care of us, and we really valued all the historical insights she shared during the tour. I would definitely suggest this trip to anyone interested!

Helpful? Yes

E
Ecrin Peeters - -
16 April

The trip was fantastic. Our guide for the day, Beste, was wonderful and shared excellent historical details. The food was delicious as well. It truly was a memorable day out!

Helpful? Yes

C
Connor Simard - -
12 April

The excursion was fantastic, and our guide Beste was extremely helpful, providing us with a wealth of valuable information. The stops at shops on the route to Ephesus enriched the experience, giving us a deeper sense of the local culture.

Helpful? Yes

C
Camila Ibañez - -
06 April

A great trip to Ephesus to see the ancient sites with a fabulous buffet meal. Our guide Nur was lovely, and very informative, and the whole day was managed very well which includes the pickup and drop off. Highly recommended.

Helpful? Yes

C
Cynthia Mitchell - -
01 April

Visiting Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary was truly stunning. I highly recommend this trip to anyone wanting to explore the incredible ancient ruins and the charming house. Nur was an excellent guide—very knowledgeable and approachable. She eagerly answered all our questions and was extremely supportive throughout the day. Overall, it was an outstanding experience, definitely a 10 out of 10!

Helpful? Yes

B
Brenda Scott - -
27 March
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

I booked this trip last minute the night before and didn’t have high hopes, but I was completely wrong! We were picked up early from the hotel and had a three-hour drive to Ephesus, with a brief breakfast break along the way. Ephesus itself was absolutely breathtaking, and our guide Nur made it even more special. She was always available to explain everything in detail and showed a real passion and deep knowledge of her country’s history. After exploring, we enjoyed lunch at a local restaurant and made a quick visit to the House of the Virgin Mary before heading back to Marmaris. This guided tour went far beyond what I expected—great value and highly recommended!

Helpful? Yes

K
Kana Uno - -
19 March
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

Our guide for the day was Nur, who was both professional and courteous. Most importantly, she had a deep understanding of Ephesus and its history. The tour was captivating and enjoyable from start to finish. I would definitely suggest this experience to anyone visiting the area.

Helpful? Yes

M
Malena Rosa - -
10 March

Nur was incredibly warm and approachable as a guide. Her tour of Ephesus was truly fascinating. She was able to answer every question we asked with ease. Additionally, she offered valuable recommendations for how to spend our free time. Many thanks for such a wonderful experience!

Helpful? Yes

T
Tee Kai Hui - -
07 March
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

I honestly can’t recommend this enough. The tour was incredibly educational and truly awe-inspiring. The workshop we visited before the main ruins was stunning, and I was captivated the entire time. The ruins of Ephesus themselves were breathtaking. Nur, our guide, shared detailed and fascinating stories about the history of the site. I’ve been on two tours in Turkey with Nur through Hektor, and she has been fantastic each time! She’s engaging, warm, and has a wonderful personality. Easy to connect with, yet very professional. She provided clear, informative answers to all our questions and was very accommodating throughout.

Helpful? Yes

E
Elijah Holmes - -
01 March
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

We arranged this tour online, and from beginning to end, the entire process was simple and very well organized! I’d suggest this trip to anyone interested in spending a day exploring the amazing site of Ephesus. Our guide, Beste, was truly exceptional—she ensured everything went seamlessly and gave us a thorough tour of the ruins. Be sure to check out the digital museum while you’re there; it’s an incredible experience. They also included lunch, which was a thoughtful addition.

Helpful? Yes

M
Mia Hoffman - -
11 November
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

We had a fantastic day! The whole trip was very well organized, and our wonderful English-speaking guide, Beste, was both helpful and very knowledgeable. We really enjoyed our visit and would be eager to return in the future to discover what other finds might come to light here!

Helpful? Yes

C
Charlie Evans - -
05 November

The tour was very well arranged and thoughtfully planned. It included all the major attractions in Ephesus, and we also had the opportunity to visit the museum. The pace was relaxed, allowing us enough time to fully explore everything. Our guide, Beste, was both knowledgeable and approachable, which made the experience even better. Breakfast and lunch were provided as part of the trip. I would strongly recommend this tour to anyone interested in visiting.

Helpful? Yes

A
Amanda Mitchell - -
28 October

We took the tour with the wonderful Nur! Her expertise, kindness, and passion really made the experience special. I absolutely enjoyed exploring Ephesus — it’s filled with stunning views and fantastic spots for photos.

Helpful? Yes

G
Gréta Orsós - -
19 October

My cousin and I traveled to Marmaris for a relaxing getaway. We joined the Ephesus Tour with our guide, Nour. The bus ride was very pleasant, allowing us to admire the beautiful Marmaris countryside, with stunning views of nature and mountains along the way. Without Nour, we wouldn’t have fully appreciated Ephesus. She led us throughout the day, sharing detailed historical insights about the ruins and the various civilizations connected to the site. Despite the warm weather, the day flew by. We enjoyed a lovely lunch featuring a buffet with a variety of tasty Turkish dishes. We also visited the House of Virgin Mary, had the chance to purchase some delicious sweets, and returned to our hotel accompanied by our wonderful guide, who patiently answered all our questions.

Helpful? Yes

D
Deborah Lüthi - -
14 October

Nur, our guide, was extremely helpful and laid out a clear plan for the day. Exploring Ephesus was an incredible experience, and Nur’s insights added great depth to the visit. I would definitely recommend this tour!

Helpful? Yes

C
Catherine Simpson - -
09 October
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

Beste was a fantastic tour guide who truly showed care and attention throughout the day. Although it was a long and demanding trip, it was absolutely worthwhile to witness such incredible historical landmarks. The museum visit in Ephesus was truly impressive and offered a much-needed escape from the outdoors.

Helpful? Yes

J
Juliusz Głowacki - -
02 October
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

Beste was an excellent and professional guide. During the tour of Ephesus, we received plenty of detailed historical explanations about the locations we visited. The schedule was well-organized, and the overall service quality was impressive. Lunch was served buffet-style, with a variety of tasty options and no limit on portions. I would definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

D
Daniel O’Keeffe - -
25 September
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

I’d absolutely suggest this tour to anyone interested in a day rich with history while staying in Marmaris. Beste was a fantastic guide—extremely knowledgeable, approachable, and full of extra anecdotes that showed her passion for the role. The day was incredible. Everything ran smoothly, including punctual hotel transfers. Both breakfast and lunch were of great quality. I especially appreciated the buffet-style Turkish lunch, which was a refreshing change from the usual tourist fare like chips and pasta. All in all, it was a wonderful experience from start to finish. Keep up the great work!

Helpful? Yes

L
Lauren Lewis - -
16 September
Icmeler: Ephesus Tour w/ Experience Museum & The Temple of Artemis | ®ExcursionMania

Our day started with an easy hotel pickup and smooth transfer to the main bus. We enjoyed a nice picnic-style breakfast and had a quick stop to stretch our legs. Our guide, Betsy, was great—she didn’t overload us with information early on, which was appreciated given the 6:00 am start. She allowed us to rest during the first part of the journey and later shared lots of interesting and enthusiastic insights. She explained everything clearly and was even happy to help take photos—such a lively and helpful person. I had been concerned that my 11-year-old might get restless, but she really enjoyed the tour, especially the digital museum, which was truly impressive. We also had visits to a pottery workshop and a Turkish delight store. The bus had free WiFi and great air conditioning, which made the long travel time much more comfortable. It was a full day out, but definitely a worthwhile one!

Helpful? Yes

E
Esther Vega - -
03 September

Fantastic full-day trip to explore both Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary. It only takes around three hours to reach the site. Entrance to Ephesus is €40, and visiting the Virgin Mary’s house costs an additional €12. Along the way, we also stopped at a pottery workshop and an olive oil factory, which added some extra interest to the day.

Helpful? Yes

B
Bernard Busch - -
30 August

It was abit hot and sunny but it was worth the sacrifice. Splendid trip and the guide Beste was very helpful fun and funny with alot of information about everything .... Very beautiful ancient ruins

Helpful? Yes

N
Noah Ryan - -
22 August

The tour was excellent! The bus ride was smooth and comfortable, and the lunch provided was quite enjoyable. Our guide, Beste, was both well-informed and approachable, making the experience even better. Grateful for such a well-organized and pleasant day!

Helpful? Yes

J
Jack Baker - -
11 August

Our tour guide named Beste was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the history and culture of the Ephesus. She brought the ancient city of Ephesus to life with her detailed explanations and engaging storytelling. Not only did our guide provide us with fascinating historical facts, but she also made sure to point out the hidden gems and lesser-known attractions within the site. She took the time to answer all of our questions and her enthusiasm was contagious. I highly recommend booking a tour with this guide if you're planning a visit to Ephesus. Thank you for an unforgettable tour!"

Helpful? Yes

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