Hadrian’s Temple in Ephesus, Turkey - Encircle Photos

12 Hadrian’s Temple in Ephesus, Turkey

Hadrian’s Gate that you just saw was finished in 117 AD, the year Hadrian became Roman emperor. The tribute was probably meant for his predecessor Trajan. Construction of Hadrian’s Temple was completed in 138, the same year the emperor died at the age of 62. He was deified posthumously. Historians consider him one of the Five Good Emperors. They collectively ruled from 96 through 180 AD. The hollow façade of Hadrian’s Temple on Curetes Street is worthy of the emperor’s 21 year reign. Four marble Corinthian columns support a bold archway with a bas-relief of Tyche, the Greek goddess of good and bad fortune. The Roman equivalent was Fortuna. The frieze also portrays key moments in Ephesus’ history plus images of Apollo and Athena. Set back is a large, crescent-shaped carving of Medusa. According to Greek mythology, her curly hair was venomous snakes. Anyone who dared look at her was turned to stone.

VIEW MAP

Hadrian’s Temple in Ephesus, Turkey

Efes Harabeleri, 35920 Selçuk/İzmir, Turkey

Directions

Share this Photo