Gate of Mazaeus and Mithridates, Ephesus

The Gate of Mazaeus and Mithridates, also known as the Gate of Augustus, is a striking example of Roman monumental architecture in the ancient city of Ephesus, near present-day Sel莽uk, Turkey. Erected in 40 A.D. by two freedmen, Mazaeus and Mithridates, the gate served as a tribute to Emperor Augustus, his wife Livia, daughter Julia, and son-in-law Marcus Agrippa. These former slaves were granted freedom by Augustus and sent to Ephesus to manage imperial properties, and the gate was their offering of gratitude. Positioned at the southeastern corner of the Commercial Agora, just beside the famed Celsus Library, the gate marked a significant entry point into the bustling commercial heart of the city.

Architecturally, the gate is both grand and intricate. It features three arched passageways with vaulted ceilings and rich decorative elements, including ivy-covered friezes and serrated cornices. The black marble side facing the Celsus Library contrasts strikingly with the white marble used on the opposite face, enhancing its visual drama. A richly adorned Attic crowns the structure, with the central passage recessed slightly to create an illusion of depth. A Latin inscription, partially preserved with bronze inlaid lettering, honors Augustus and his family and proclaims the loyalty and service of Mazaeus and Mithridates.

In addition to its symbolic and architectural value, the Gate of Mazaeus and Mithridates had a practical and cultural role. The square in front of it served as an auditorium, where public lectures and announcements were delivered. The steps of the Celsus Library provided seating for spectators, making the area a lively gathering spot for civic life in Roman Ephesus. The gate is also noteworthy for surviving the devastating earthquake of 23 CE, making it one of the best-preserved monuments from Augustus鈥檚 urban renewal efforts.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Ephesus. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "黑料吃瓜网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

Download The 黑料吃瓜网 App

Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Gate of Mazaeus and Mithridates
Sight Location: Ephesus, Turkey (See walking tours in Ephesus)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Ephesus Introduction Walking Tour

Walking Tours in Ephesus, Turkey

Create Your Own Walk in Ephesus

Creating your own self-guided walk in Ephesus is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.

Ephesus Introduction Walking Tour

Ephesus, the most important Greek city in Ionian Asia Minor, the ruins of which lie near the modern village of Sel茍uk in western Turkey. Ephesus is one of the largest and most impressive ancient cities in the world and is one of T眉rkiye鈥檚 most significant ancient cities. Its cultural and historical significance was highlighted in its addition to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2015. The... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.0 Km or 0.6 Miles

Selcuk Introduction Walking Tour

Sel莽uk is a town near Izmir, in western Turkey. It鈥檚 the gateway to Ephesus, a vast, ancient city with the remains of a large theater and the Library of Celsus. South is the House of Virgin Mary, a domed chapel and religious shrine. Near Sel莽uk, a marble column is one of a few remains of the Temple of Artemis. The Ephesus Museum has more items from the temple, plus other artifacts excavated... view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles

黑料吃瓜网