The Marble Road in Ephesus extends from the Library of Celsus to the Great Theater, forming one of the city’s most iconic walkways. This holy road that winds around the Pion mountain takes the name ‘Marble Road‘ after it reaches the Celsus Library. It was originally constructed in the 1st century A.D. and was later rebuilt in the 5th century. The road is evenly covered with white marble blocks. On the columned side, there is a columned portico. The stoa, built during Emperor Nero’s reign (54–68 A.D.), overlooks the Road and the Agora.
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Advanced Roman Drainage System Under the Marble Road
The drainage that goes under the road is uncovered here in order for visitors to see. This part of the drainage belongs to the buildings under the Pion mountain, whose excavations have not been started yet. From here, coming from the front of the theater, it reaches the main drainage at Harbor Road.
Holes in the Marble Walls
The holes visible along the roadside wall are remnants from a time of poverty in Ephesus, when the valuable metals, such as lead and iron, that connected the marble blocks were removed.
Legends, Symbols, and Graffiti Along the Road
On the stoa side of the road, there are figures of a Bizantine-era woman’s head, a heart, and a foot. These caused a joke, which says that these were the ads of the Love House. The gladiator engravings seen on the same row were found in various locations and placed here.
Road Extensions and Restoration Projects in Later Centuries
Marble Street follows the Theater Gymnasium and the Stadium and reaches the Corresos Gate. According to an inscription, an Ephesian called Eutropius had some parts of the Road repaired in the 5th century A.D., and the citizens had his statue made. The restorations of the 4th century went as far as the Theater Gymnasium.
Cart Tracks and Evidence of Road Usage Over Time
Because the restorations did not go any further, the tracks of the carts that have gone back and forth for centuries can be seen clearly. The few tracks on the restored roads suggest minimal usage after the restoration.
Architectural Discoveries: Brick Arches and Covered Galleries
The arch-piece, which was made of even bricks and which was found quite undestroyed, may indicate that there used to be brick walls among the columns and that the gallery was covered with wood.
