Domitian Square Ephesus Turkey
The Imperial Cult was started by constructing a temple in the name of emperor Domitian Ephesians to secure good relations and the support of Rome. Erected as an indicator of their friendship with Romans, Domitian Temple was the first temple at Ephesus dedicated to an emperor (81–96) upon his referring to himself both as God and Lord.
It was erected on an impressive extensive area through the terracing of the hillside facing the southwest of Domitianus Street. The title of Neokoros (Guardian of the Temple) which was not granted, was finally given to the city by Emperor Domitianus and this title was requested from the Roman Senate at the beginning of 1st century A.D. Ephesians erected this temple raised in honor of Emperor Domitian and his wife so that they could show their gratitude for this honor.
Roman Senate wanted him removed from memory after Emperor Domitian was killed, For this reason, Ephesians hid the head of the statues of Domitian in the cellar of the temple because of this judgment by the Roman Senate. Ephesians were obliged to both demolish the temple and lose the title of Neokoros. They also wiped his name from every inscription so as not to find his name in the era.
The monumental stairway which is still visible today in the northern part of Domitian Temple seems to have been two-storied. On the second floor, there was a marble terrace that was surrounded by marble columns. The windows of the temple were located on both sides of the structure above the niches to get light to the interior. The facade of the temple was decorated with eight columns.
The archeologists found some pieces of the statue of Emperor Domitian like the arm and the head at the site. The north of the building was located by an altar on which different figures of war were depicted. They are exhibited at Ephesus Museum now. The size of the statue gives an idea about the whole temple, it was originally 5 meters high. Domitian Square leads on the left of the way from Prythaneion to the Memmius Monument. The square took its name from the Domitian Temple.
