Ephesus, an ancient city located in what is now Turkey, was one of the most important cities of antiquity. It was an important center of trade, culture, and religion, and its ruins still attract visitors from all over the world.
Ephesus was located near the mouth of the Kaystros River, which gave it access to the Aegean Sea. This strategic location made it an important trading center. The origins of the city date back to the Late Bronze Age around 5000 BC, with evidence of human presence on the Ayasoluk Hill. The settlement, known as Apaşa in Hittite texts, was an important center in the Arzawa region.
The city experienced great development during the Hellenistic period, especially under the rule of Lysimachus, one of Alexander the Great's generals. Ephesus was relocated to its current location and became an important port city. Under Roman rule, it flourished and became the capital of the Roman province of Asia. The city's population grew to over 200,000, making it one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire.
Ephesus was known for its impressive architecture. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was built here. Although it was destroyed and rebuilt several times, its grandeur was legendary. Other notable buildings included the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Great Theatre, which could seat up to 25,000 spectators.
Ephesus played a key role in the early spread of Christianity. The Apostle Paul visited the city and founded a Christian community. According to tradition, the Virgin Mary spent her final years in Ephesus, and her house is now a pilgrimage site. The city was also the site of the Third Ecumenical Council in 431, which dealt with the Nestorian controversy.
The decline of Ephesus began in late antiquity due to a combination of factors, including silting of the harbor, earthquakes, and invasions. By the Byzantine period, the city had lost much of its former splendor. However, its legacy lives on through well-preserved ruins that offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient civilizations.
Ephesus remains a witness to the architectural, cultural, and religious achievements of ancient times. Its ruins still inspire admiration and respect, making it an important historical and archaeological site.
Thermes and Gymnasium
The Gymnasium of Theatre in Ephesus, also known as the Theatre Gymnasium, is a fascinating site that combines both educational and physical training facilities. This complex, located at the beginning of Harbor Street, was constructed in the 2nd century AD and dedicated to the goddess Artemis and the emperor Antonius Pius.
The gymnasium was an essential part of Roman culture, serving as a major educational center where young men were trained in various disciplines, including art, sports, literature, drama, and speech. The palaestra, or place of exercise, was an open field surrounded by covered columns, providing a space for physical activities1.
The complex also included a bathhouse with warm bathing pools, a frigidarium (cold room), recreation rooms, and halls for training. One of the notable features of the gymnasium is the Hall of Emperors, which had mosaic-decorated floors and statues of emperors1. These statues are now displayed in the Izmir Archaeological Museum.
The Theatre Gymnasium's proximity to the grand theatre, which could host 25,000 spectators, highlights the Greco-Roman belief in nurturing both the mind and body. This site reflects the holistic educational and personal development ethos of the time, making it a captivating destination for visitors interested in ancient civilizations and archaeological sites.
The Basilica Stoa
The Basilica Stoa in Ephesus, also known as the Market Basilica, is a significant historical structure located just north of the State Agora. This basilica dates back to the 1st century AD and served as a major gathering place for business and legal matters2.
The Basilica was a rectangular building, approximately 160 meters long, with a wooden roof and three naves separated by two rows of columns. Initially, the columns were adorned with Ionic capitals featuring bull heads, symbolizing power. During the reign of Augustus, these were replaced with Corinthian-style capitals.
The Basilica Stoa was not only a center for commercial trading and stock exchange but also a place where the Praetor, a Roman magistrate, presided over court cases and resolved business disputes. The structure was connected to the Varius Baths via three gates to a smaller stoa, which was later modified during the Byzantine era2.
Although the Basilica was destroyed by an earthquake in the 4th century AD and never rebuilt, its ruins still offer a glimpse into the grandeur of Ephesus's architectural and cultural heritage.
The Bouleuterion
The Bouleuterion in Ephesus, also known as the Council House, was a significant structure in the ancient city. It served as the meeting place for the city council, where important political and administrative decisions were made. The Bouleuterion was located near the Upper Agora and was built during the Hellenistic period, around the 2nd century BC.
The building was designed in a semi-circular shape, resembling a small theater, and could accommodate around 1,400 people. It was also used as an Odeion, a venue for musical performances, poetry readings, and other cultural events. The structure featured a stage, seating areas, and a roof to protect the audience from the elements.
The Bouleuterion underwent several phases of construction and reconstruction, with significant renovations during the Roman period. One notable renovation was financed by Publius Vedius Antoninus around 150 AD, which included the addition of a new stage house decorated with statues and inscriptions.
Today, the remains of the Bouleuterion offer a glimpse into the political and cultural life of ancient Ephesus. Visitors can explore the site and imagine the lively debates and performances that once took place within its walls.
Prytaneion
The Prytaneion of Ephesus was an important building that served as an official administrative building or city hall. It was located behind the market basilica and was built in the 3rd century BC during the reign of Lysimachus. The building was in ruins during the Augustan era, and some of the columns and other materials from the Prytaneion were used to build the Thermae Scholastica in the 4th century.
The Prytaneion was a place where religious ceremonies, official receptions, and banquets were held. A special feature of the Prytaneion was the sacred fire, which was dedicated to the goddess Hestia, goddess of the hearth and fire, and was maintained by a group of priestesses called the Curetes. This sacred fire symbolized the heart of Ephesus and was kept constantly lit.
Architecturally, the Prytaneion was built as a private house. It contains a hall for meetings, administrative offices, state archives, and a dining room for receiving foreign visitors. Two of the eight columns in front of the building are still visible today. These columns lead to a courtyard surrounded by a portico paved with a mosaic depicting the shields of the Amazons.
During excavations in the Prytaneion, archaeologists found two statues of the goddess Artemis. The larger statue was found in the ceremonial hall, while the other was carefully buried in the sanctuary. The statues are now on display in the Ephesus Museum
The Temenos
The Temenos in Ephesus, also known as the sanctuary or "peristyle with double monuments," is located between the Prytaneion and the Odeon. Constructed in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Augustus, it was dedicated to the Imperial Cult in honor of Julius Caesar and the goddess Roma2.
The Temenos was a large open courtyard, measuring approximately 27 by 20 meters, surrounded on three sides by Ionic colonnades. In the center of the courtyard stood a raised structure, which may have been the base for an altar or two small temples3. This area was used for religious ceremonies and aimed to establish a good relationship between the people of Ephesus and the Roman emperors.
The Temenos is an important archaeological site that offers insight into the religious and cultural practices of ancient Ephesus. Visitors can explore the remains of this sanctuary and imagine the grandeur of the ceremonies that once took place there.
Banqueting house
The Banqueting House in Ephesus, located near the Prytaneion, is a richly decorated hall measuring approximately 14 by 11 meters. Its exact function remains uncertain, but it is believed to have been used for banquets or possibly as a residential house1. The Banqueting House was part of the public buildings to the north of the State Agora, along with other significant structures like the Prytaneion and the Bouleuterion.
The hall's opulent decoration and proximity to the Prytaneion suggest that it was an important venue for social gatherings and official functions. The remains of the Banqueting House offer a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle and architectural sophistication of ancient Ephesus.
The Memmus monument
The Memmius Monument in Ephesus is a significant historical structure located to the north of Curetes Street, near Domitian Square. It was erected in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Augustus by Memmius, a prominent citizen of Ephesus and the grandson of the Roman dictator Sulla.
The monument was built to commemorate the military victories of Sulla, who liberated Ephesus from the occupation of the Pontic armies. The structure originally featured four facades adorned with reliefs depicting Sulla's soldiers and symbols of his virtues. Although many inscriptions have been lost or removed over time, the figures of Memmius's father and grandfather are still visible on the blocks today.
In the 4th century AD, a square fountain was added to the northwest facade of the monument. This fountain had four Corinthian columns and statues of Roman emperors Diocletian, Maximian, Constantius Chlorus, and Galerius.
Today, the partially restored Memmius Monument stands as a reminder of Ephesus's rich history and the significant events that shaped the city.
The temple of Domitian
The Temple of Domitian, also known as the Temple of the Sebastoi, is a significant historical structure in Ephesus. Built in the 1st century AD during the reign of Emperor Domitian, it was one of the first temples in Ephesus dedicated to a Roman emperor.
The temple was constructed on a high terrace at Domitian Square, measuring approximately 50 by 100 meters. It featured a pro-style plan with thirteen columns on the long sides and eight columns on the short sides, along with four additional columns in front of the cella. The northern side of the terrace was reached by stairs, which are still visible today.
Originally believed to be dedicated to Domitian, recent evidence suggests that the temple may have been erected for Emperor Titus. Regardless, it was a great honor for the city to have such a monument. The temple also had a U-shaped altar on the northern side, which is now displayed in the Izmir Museum1.
Domitian was known as one of the more brutal Roman emperors, and his reign included the persecution of many Christians, including the exile of John the Apostle to the island of Patmos. After Domitian's assassination, the citizens of Ephesus celebrated by erasing his name from inscriptions around the city. To maintain their favorable status with Rome, they quickly re-dedicated the temple to Emperor Vespasian, Domitian's father1.
The temple was eventually destroyed after the 4th century when Christianity became the state religion.
Fountain of Pollio
The Fountain of Pollio in Ephesus, built in 97 AD by C. Sextilius Pollio and his family, is a remarkable historical structure located just south of the State Agora, directly across from Domitian Square2. This fountain was constructed in memory of Sextillius Pollio, the builder of the famous aqueduct that supplied water to all the fountains in the city.
The Pollio Fountain features a wide and high arch facing the Temple of Domitian, which is visible from various points in the city. The fountain was adorned with several statues, including a statue of Zeus and a group statue depicting the adventures of Odysseus and Polyphemus. These statues have been moved to the Ephesus Museum for preservation.
Water was brought to the fountains of Ephesus from three main sources: the Kencherios at Kuşadası (42 kilometers away), the Çamlık village stream at Marnas (15 kilometers away), and the Cayster River (20 kilometers away). The water was delivered through aqueducts and distributed to the fountains via a branching system of baked clay pipes1. The Pollio Fountain is a testament to the engineering prowess and the wealth of ancient Ephesus.
Hydrekdocheion
The Hydrekdocheion in Ephesus, also known as the Water Palace or the Fountain of Laecanius Bassus, is a remarkable structure located at the southwest corner of the State Agora. Built between 80 and 82 AD by Gaius Laecanius Bassus, a governor of Ephesus, this fountain is a testament to the architectural sophistication and the importance of water in the city's life.
The Hydrekdocheion features a large rectangular basin, measuring approximately 12.35 by 8.30 meters, surrounded by an ornate multi-story facade on three sides. The facade was richly decorated with statues of Tritons and Muses, which are now displayed in the Ephesus Museum. The fountain also contained a cistern or water reservoir tank that served as the terminal point of the Aqueduct of Sextilius Pollio, ensuring a constant water supply.
The dynamic water element, combined with the interplay of rich, colorful architecture and intricate sculptural decoration, made the Hydrekdocheion an impressive architectural highlight of Ephesus.
Inscriptions museum
The Inscriptions Museum in Ephesus is located on the west side of the Upper Agora, housed in a row of vaults that were part of the substructure of the Temple of Domitian. This museum contains over 3,000 complete and fragmentary inscriptions, with around 60 of the best-preserved inscriptions on display.
These inscriptions provide invaluable insights into the social, political, and cultural life of ancient Ephesus. They include public decrees, grave inscriptions, dedications, and imperial letters. Some notable inscriptions detail the rights of citizenship during the Hellenistic period, honorific dedications to rulers and local dignitaries, and even a death penalty for sacrilege from the late 4th century BC.
The museum is usually closed to the general public, and access may be restricted to academics by appointment. However, many inscriptions can still be seen around the archaeological site and in the Ephesus Archaeological Museum in Selçuk.
Curetes Street
Curetes Street is one of the main thoroughfares in ancient Ephesus, running between the Hercules Gate and the Library of Celsus. This street was an important processional way, leading to the Temple of Artemis. It was named after the Curetes, a class of priests and priestesses responsible for maintaining the sacred fire in the Prytaneion.
The street is lined with numerous monuments, fountains, and statues, reflecting the wealth and cultural significance of Ephesus. The houses along the slope were used by the city's wealthiest inhabitants, and the shops on the southern side were two-storied3. The street's design, with its diagonal layout, deviates from the typical grid plan of Greco-Roman cities.
Curetes Street has undergone several reconstructions due to earthquakes, with materials from other fallen structures repurposed for repairs. Today, visitors can still see the differences in design on the columns, a testament to the street's long history and the resilience of Ephesus.
Fountain of Trajan
The Gate of Trajan in Ephesus, also known as the Fountain of Trajan, is a monumental structure built in honor of the Roman Emperor Trajan. Constructed around 104 AD, it is one of the finest monuments in Ephesus. The gatehouse features a large pool with water flowing from beneath a colossal statue of Trajan, symbolizing his power and influence. The statue depicted Trajan with his right foot on a globe, signifying his dominion over the world.
The facade of the gatehouse was richly decorated with Corinthian and Composite columns, and statues of other emperors, gods, and heroes stood in niches. Some of these statues are now displayed in the Ephesus Museum.
Varius Baths
The Varius Baths in Ephesus are a fascinating example of Roman bath architecture. Built in the 2nd century AD, these baths are located near the State Agora. They are known for their intricate mosaics and marble decorations, which showcase the artistic and architectural skills of the time.
The baths were an essential part of daily life in ancient Ephesus, serving not only as a place for bathing but also as a social and recreational center. People would gather here to relax, exercise, and discuss various matters.
Yamaç Ev 1/2 / Teracce houses 1/2
Yamaç Ev 1, also known as Terrace House 1, is one of the luxurious residential complexes in ancient Ephesus. Located on the slopes of Bülbül Mountain, these terrace houses were home to the city's wealthy elite. The houses were built in the Roman period, around the 1st century AD, and were used until the 7th century AD.
Yamaç Ev 1 is part of a larger complex of terrace houses, which includes Yamaç Ev 2. These houses were designed with multiple floors, courtyards, and richly decorated interiors featuring mosaics and frescoes. The houses also had advanced amenities such as underfloor heating and private baths.
The terrace houses provide valuable insights into the daily life and social status of the affluent citizens of Ephesus. They are an important archaeological site, offering a glimpse into the architectural and cultural heritage of the ancient city.
Yamaç Ev 2, also known as Terrace House 2, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Ephesus. This residential complex, dating back to the Roman period, offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of the wealthy inhabitants of Ephesus.
Terrace House 2 consists of several luxurious homes built on terraces, hence the name. These homes were equipped with advanced amenities for their time, including underfloor heating, private baths, and intricate mosaics and frescoes that adorned the walls and floors. The houses were multi-storied and featured spacious rooms, courtyards, and even private libraries.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Terrace House 2 is the preservation of its decorative elements. The mosaics and frescoes depict various mythological scenes, geometric patterns, and floral motifs, showcasing the artistic and cultural richness of the period. The houses also contained numerous artifacts, such as pottery, glassware, and household items, providing valuable insights into the daily life and social status of their occupants.
Excavations and restorations of Terrace House 2 have been ongoing, revealing more details about the architecture and lifestyle of the Roman elite in Ephesus. The site is now a popular tourist attraction, allowing visitors to walk through the ancient homes and marvel at the well-preserved decorations and artifacts.
Hadrian's Gate
Hadrian's Gate in Ephesus is a triumphal arch built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, who visited the city in 130 AD. The gate is located at the junction of Curetes Street and Marble Road. It features three arched entrances, with the central one being wider and spanned by an arch, while the two side entrances are capped by architraves.
The structure is made of white marble and is adorned with intricate decorations. The gatehouse has three stories, with the second story formed of four pillars and the third story of six pillars. A gable marks the top of the building.
Hadrian's Gate is a remarkable example of Roman architecture and is definitely worth a visit if you find yourself in Ephesus.
House of pleasures
The so-called "House of Pleasure" in Ephesus, also known as the Love House or brothel, is one of the intriguing spots for visitors. Located near the intersection of Marble Street and Curetes Street, this house dates back to the first century AD. It consists of a main hall and several rooms connected to it.
One of the most interesting features of the Love House is the floor mosaics, which depict scenes of a Dionysian feast. These mosaics, along with other artifacts found in the house, suggest that it was a place of entertainment and possibly a brothel. The house also had a heating and cooling system, which was quite advanced for its time.
Another fascinating aspect is the "foot sign" carved on the sidewalk, which is believed to be an advertisement for the Love House. The sign features a left foot, a woman's face, a rectangular shape (interpreted as money), and a heart symbol. This composition is thought to indicate that following the foot sign would lead one to the Love House.
The Love House is located near the famous Library of Celsus, and there are rumors of a secret tunnel connecting the two, allowing visitors to discreetly move between the library and the Love House.
Tiodos Square
Triodos Square, also known as Tiodos Square, is a significant historical site in Ephesus. It is located at the heart of the ancient city, where three main roads intersect: Curetes Street, Marble Road, and Ortygia Road. The name "Triodos" means "Three Roads," reflecting its strategic location.
The square is surrounded by several important monuments, including the magnificent facade of the Celsus Library to the west and the Hadrian's Gate to the east. The square served as a central hub for social, commercial, and religious activities in ancient Ephesus.
One of the notable features of Triodos Square is the Gate of Mazeus and Mithridates, which marked the beginning of the Via Sacra, the sacred road leading to the legendary birthplace of Artemis. The square's layout and the surrounding structures highlight the architectural and cultural significance of Ephesus during its peak.
The Library of Celsus
The Library of Ephesus, known as the Library of Celsus, is one of the most impressive and well-preserved buildings from the Roman period. It was built in the early 2nd century AD in honor of the Roman senator Tiberius Julius Celsus Polemeanus, who was buried in a sarcophagus beneath the library. The library was designed as both a mausoleum and a library, a unique feature of the building.
The facade of the library is richly decorated with floral motifs and portrait statues symbolizing wisdom (Sofia), virtue (Arete), insight (Ennoia), and knowledge (Episteme). The library contained approximately 12,000 scrolls, making it one of the three richest libraries of the ancient world, after Alexandria and Pergamum.
The Library of Celsus was built to serve as a cultural and educational center where people could gather and exchange knowledge. Its architecture and decoration reflect the high level of technical knowledge and artistic skill achieved by the Romans.
Although the library was destroyed by fire in the 3rd century, its remains are still impressive today and attract many visitors from all over the world. The Library of Celsus is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of Ephesus and an important monument of Roman architecture.
The South Gate of Ephesus
The South Gate of Ephesus, also known as the Magnesian Gate, was one of the main entrances to the ancient city of Ephesus. Built during the Hellenistic period, it served as a significant entry point for traders, pilgrims, and visitors coming into the city.
Named after the nearby city of Magnesia, the South Gate was part of the extensive city walls that protected Ephesus from invasions and controlled the flow of people and goods. The gate was adorned with reliefs and sculptures depicting various mythological scenes and deities, showcasing the artistic and cultural richness of the time.
Today, the remains of the South Gate are still visible and stand as an important archaeological site, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and historical significance of Ephesus. Visitors can marvel at the architectural details and imagine the bustling activity that once took place at this entrance to the ancient city.
Marble Street
Marble Street, also known as Marble Road, is one of the main thoroughfares in ancient Ephesus. This street stretches from the Great Theatre to the Celsus Library, forming part of the sacred way that leads to the Temple of Artemis.
Constructed in the 1st century AD and rebuilt in the 5th century AD, Marble Street is paved with marble slabs, which give it its name. The western side of the road is enclosed by the agora wall, and on the wall is a higher platform constructed during the reign of Nero for pedestrians1.
One of the most interesting features of Marble Street is the ancient advertisement believed to be for a brothel. This advertisement, considered the first in history, includes a footprint, a woman's head, and a heart, symbolizing that one should turn at that point to find the brothel.
Marble Street is lined with busts and statues of important figures, and letters from emperors were carved into the marble blocks for people to read. It's a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and social structure of ancient Ephesus.
The Great Theatre
The Great Theatre in Ephesus is one of the most magnificent and well-preserved structures in the ancient city. Located on the slope of Panayir Hill, opposite Harbor Street, it is easily visible when entering from the south entrance to Ephesus.
Constructed in the 3rd century BC during the reign of Lysimachos, the theatre was later expanded and renovated during the Roman period. It could accommodate up to 25,000 spectators, making it the largest theatre in Anatolia. The theatre features a semicircular auditorium with tiered seating, a commanding stage, and exceptional acoustics that allow even whispers from the stage to be heard clearly in the farthest rows.
The Great Theatre was not only a venue for dramatic performances but also a central hub for social gatherings, political meetings, and even gladiator fights during the Roman era. Its grandeur and size symbolized the prominence and wealth of Ephesus as a cultural and political hub in the ancient world.
Literature ans sources:
Lost In Time: Ephesus, Turkey (URL: https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/case-studies/a7177-lost-in-time-ephesus-turkey , citirano in povzeto 30.12.2024),
Ephesos Yamac Ev 2, Ege Yayinlari (December 31, 2012), 283 str.,
So Called "House of Pleasure" in Ephesus (URL: www.ephesuskusadasiguide.com, citirano in povzeto 30.12.2024),
Bouleuterion in Ephesus, (URL:https://www.livius.org/articles/place/ephesus/ephesus-photos/ephesus-bouleuterion citirano in povzeto 30.12.2024),
Banqueting house in Ephesus, (URL: turkisharchaeonews.net, citirano in povzeto 31.12.2024),
The Inscriptions Museum in Ephesus,(URL: my-favourite-planet.de, citirano in povzeto 31.12.2024),
Curretes street in Ephesus (URL: www.turkisharchaeonews.net, citirano in povzeto 31.12.2024).
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