 Temple of Hadrian at Ephesus, Turkey
The Temple of Hadrian one of the most dazzling of the commemorative structures in Ephesus was built on the Path of the Curetes.
With a building of a Temple dedicated to an emperor, Ephesus, during the reign of Hadrian received the Epithet of Neokoros for the second time.  Relief of Goddess Tyche (Fortuna) at Hadrian Temple Ephesus, Turkey
A closer examination of the Temple friezes, reveal scenes of great vibrancy and vivacity.
These particular friezes are replicas of the originals on display in the Ephesus Museum. The first frieze to the left depicts Androculos, the mythical founder of the Ephesus in pursuit of a Boar.  Depiction of Flora (Local Deity of Abundance)
The second pediment in the interior of the temple features a Medusa-like female figure while the Temple Doors have been adorned with motifs symbolizing fertility and prosperity.
 Inner pediment Reliefs of Hadrian Temple Ephesus Turkey
According to legend, Androculos the leader of the Ionians set sail over the Aegean hoping to establish a city at the bay of the Little Meander River, however the consent of the Gods was required for such adventure, so Androculos approached the Oracle at the Temple of Apollo and asked where his city was to be founded.
The Oracle replied: A fish shall give you the sign and a boar shall show you the way. The frieze you see now is a depiction of his pursuit of the boar that showed him the way. A statue of Androculos slaying the Boar can be seen in the Izmir Archaeology Museum.  Relief of Amazon Warriors Detail from Temple of Hadrian at Ephesus
The second frieze depicts the Gods and the Amazons while the 3rd the frieze to the right shows the Amazons and Dionysian Procession.
Athena, Selene, the Goddess of the Moon, Apollo, Androculos, Herakles can be seen in the forth section of the frieze. |
