The Memmius Monument stands at the junction of Curetes Street and Domitian Square in the ancient city of Ephesus, near İzmir. Built in the 1st century BC, it honoured Gaius Memmius, a descendant of the Roman dictator Sulla. The surviving stonework gives a sense of the monument’s original tower-like form; reliefs between its columns depicted Memmius and members of his family. Look for the nearby Nike relief at the crossroads, too. Some original relief fragments are now in the Ephesus Museum.
A monument to Memmius
Built in the 1st century BC, the monument honoured Gaius Memmius, a descendant of the Roman dictator Sulla. It stood at a prominent crossroads where Curetes Street meets Domitian Square in Ephesus.
The structure was designed as a tower on a stepped base, with curved marble blocks and open sides. Reliefs between the columns depicted Memmius, his father and his grandfather Sulla in Roman togas. Original fragments of the reliefs are now displayed at the Ephesus Museum.
What remains at the site
The monument has not survived intact. Its remaining stones and details sit alongside modern architectural additions, which have a cubist appearance. The nearby crossroads is also known for a Nike relief, a detail to look for as you explore this part of Ephesus.
In the 4th century AD, a monumental pool and fountain were added to the front of the monument, changing its function. The site’s history is linked to Sulla’s campaign against Mithridates, whose forces had taken control of the region.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Memmius Monument?
It is in the ancient city of Ephesus, at the junction of Curetes Street and Domitian Square, near İzmir.
What can you see at the monument?
You can see the surviving stonework and modern architectural additions. Look for the Nike relief at the nearby crossroads; original relief fragments are displayed at the Ephesus Museum.
When is a good time to visit?
Go early in the day for fewer crowds and better light for photography.
