The Temple of Hadrian was constructed in 138 AD in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, who visited Ephesus in 128-129 AD. This was a period of prosperity for the city under Roman rule, when Ephesus was adorned with monumental structures emphasizing its status as the capital of the Province of Asia. The temple not only glorified the emperor but also symbolized Ephesus` loyalty to Rome.
The construction of the Temple of Hadrian was funded by wealthy citizens, as evidenced by the surviving inscription: "From the grateful Ephesians to Emperor Hadrian."
Architecture and Design of the Temple of Hadrian
The Temple of Hadrian is one of the finest examples of Corinthian order architecture in Asia Minor, distinguished by its elegant proportions and rich decoration:
• Facade: Four Corinthian columns (about 8 meters tall) supported a triangular pediment decorated with reliefs. At the center stood an arch with a statue of Tyche (goddess of fortune) holding a cornucopia.
• Cella (inner chamber): The walls were lined with marble, and the floor was adorned with mosaics. A statue of Hadrian (now lost) once stood inside.
• Frieze: Above the entrance were relief panels depicting mythological scenes, including Medusa Gorgon (a protective symbol), The Founding of Ephesus (legend says the city was established by the Amazons) and Dionysus and his retinue (a nod to the region’s winemaking traditions)
Religious and Political Significance
• Imperial Cult: Ceremonies were held here to honor Hadrian, who was worshipped as a deity.
• City Sanctuary: The temple also venerated Artemis of Ephesus, reinforcing the connection between Roman authority and local traditions.
• Interesting fact: In the 4th century, the temple was likely repurposed as a Christian basilica, as indicated by crosses carved into its walls.
Today, the Temple of Hadrian is one of the best-preserved structures in Ephesus, though in a ruined state. In the 1950s, its columns and arch were reconstructed.
Surviving elements:
• The Medusa frieze (original in the Ephesus Museum in Selçuk, replica on-site)
• Inscriptions with donors` names
• Mythological reliefs
• Votive offerings (coins, lamps, figurines) found at the temple’s base
The temple stands on Curetes Street, near the Terrace Houses of the elite, highlighting its prestigious location.
The Temple of Hadrian is more than just an ancient monument. It represents a fusion of Roman and Greek architecture (Corinthian columns + Roman arches) and evidence of the imperial cult as a tool of political propaganda. The best time to visit is sunrise or sunset, when the sunlight accentuates the intricate carvings on the facade. Don’t miss the "smiling" Medusa on the frieze
