Wow, the Temple of Domitian in Ephesus is absolutely stunning!
The Temple of Domitian in Ephesus was the FIRST temple erected in the name of the Roman emperors in the city! It is located in Domitian Square, alongside structures such as the Nike Relief, the Memmius Monument, and the Fountain of Pollio. During the IMPERIAL PERIOD, which began with Augustus, the FIRST EMPEROR of the Roman Empire, emperors began to see themselves as DEITIES with ETERNAL POWER! The tyrannical emperor Domitianus (A.D. 81-96) also named himself a RULER and GOD! Wow! The people of Ephesus were so afraid of the emperor that they built the magnificent Temple of Domitian right in the heart of the city on a terrace at the foot of Mount Koressos. And what a temple it was, built in his name!
Architectural Features of the Temple
Wow! The stylobate measures an impressive 24x34m and is ascended by eight steps, while the terrace on which it stands is a whopping 50x100m! The combination of marble and brick used in its construction, along with the numerous statues and reliefs depicting scenes from mythology, make it a true work of art. The Temple of Domitian is truly a marvel of ancient architecture! And let’s not forget its massive size – measuring approximately 160 feet by 130 feet and standing more than 60 feet tall, it’s no wonder it was one of the tallest buildings in the city of Ephesus! For guests participating in our Private Ephesus Tours, I highly recommend visiting the Ephesus Archaeological Museum! You won’t want to miss the chance to see the incredible head and arm of the giant emperor Domitian statue on display.
Death of The Curial Emperor Domitian
It served a variety of purposes, including worship, as Emperor Domitian saw himself as a deity, and as a center for cultural and intellectual activities. Not only that, but it also hosted public ceremonies and festivals in the city of Ephesus!
The Temple of Domitian was an incredible hub of activity!
However, in the 14th year of his reign, the unpopular Emperor Domitian was assassinated by one of his servants while he slept, revealing to the Ephesians that he was not an immortal god as he had claimed!
However, in the 14th year of his reign, the unpopular Emperor Domitian was assassinated by one of his servants while he slept, revealing to the Ephesians that he was not an immortal god as he had claimed!
However, in the 14th year of his reign, the unpopular Emperor Domitian was assassinated by one of his servants while he slept, revealing to the Ephesians that he was not an immortal god as he had claimed!
The passing of this incredible individual signified the conclusion of the Flavian dynasty! And the commencement of a new era under the Five Good Emperors!