- 5
- 23
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 42
- 11
- 0
- 2
- 2
- 1
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 16
- 2
- 2
- 5
- 96
- 6
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 1
- 2
- 1
- 5
- 1
- 1
- 21
- 1
- 3
- 1
- 2
- 1
- 2
- 100
- 2
- 54
- 6
- 1
- 155
- 5
- 29
- 1
- 30
- 5
- 4
- 0
- 2
- 2
- 2
- 4
- 0
- 1
- 5
- 6
- 11
- 15
- 23
- 90
- 3
- 14
- 22
- 17
- 4
🦸♂️ The Hercules Gate: A Hallmark of Ephesus
The Hercules Gate stands as one of Ephesus’ most iconic landmarks, marking the entrance to Curetes Street. Once a grand two-story structure, the gate was designed to restrict chariot traffic, preserving the marble walkway that modern visitors can still walk today.
🏛 Historical Significance
📍 Location: At the head of Curetes Street, separating Upper and Lower Ephesus.
📜 Era: Originally sculpted in the 2nd century AD, repurposed as a gate in the 4th century AD.
🚧 Purpose: Blocked horse-drawn carts and chariots, making Curetes Street a pedestrian-only area.
🦸♂️ The Myth of Hercules on the Gate
The two remaining columns of the gate feature reliefs of Hercules, the legendary Greek hero:
✔ Draped in the skin of the Nemean Lion, which he strangled in the first of his 12 labors.
✔ Symbol of strength and heroism, often honored in Roman cities.
✔ Originally part of a larger temple or structure, before being repurposed for the gate.
🏗 Architectural Features
🏛 Two-Story Gate:
✔ Originally stood two stories tall, lined with six columns per floor.
✔ Other pieces of the structure remain buried or are displayed in Domitian Square.
🗿 Nearby Reliefs:
✔ Nike Relief – The Greek goddess of victory, once part of the gate’s decoration.
✔ Domitian Square Ruins – Other pieces of the Hercules Gate and nearby monuments.
🚶 Walk in the Footsteps of Romans
👣 Marble Pathway: Unlike other Roman streets worn by chariots, the Hercules Gate preserved Curetes Street for foot traffic only.
🛍 Bustling Hub: Ancient Romans walked, shopped, and socialized here daily.
🌟 Tip: Start your Ephesus tour at the top of Curetes Street, passing through the Hercules Gate and imagining life in ancient times.
📍 Nearby Attractions
📌 Curetes Street – The main shopping and social avenue of Ephesus.
📌 Commercial Agora – The economic hub of the ancient city.
📌 Church of Mary – One of the earliest churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
📌 Library of Celsus – One of the most iconic ruins of Ephesus.
🌟 Visit the Hercules Gate and walk where Romans once did! 🚶♂️