In this article, I would like to explain in detail the architectural features of the Temple of Domitian, its religious significance, the life of Emperor Domitian. Also, I want to explore the possible effects of the temple of Domitian on Christianity. Let’s take a closer look at Domitian Temple Of Ephesus.
Architectural and Archaeological Interpretation of the Temple of Domitian
The Temple of Domitian stands out both for its archaeological features and for reflecting the religious and political dynamics of the Roman Empire on the first century. It is one of the few buildings in Ephesus dedicated to the cult of emperors, who were generally deified during the Roman period of Asia Minor. The other buildings dedicated to Roman emperors in Ephesus are the Temple of Hadrian and the Fountain of Trajan.
The Temple of Domitian was built between 81 and 96 AD. The first excavations of the temple were carried out in the early 20th century, mainly by the Austrian Archaeological Institute. These excavations uncovered the foundations of the temple, fragments of columns, sculptural remains and decorative elements. The ongoing excavation and restoration work has led to a wider understanding of the temple. The original dimensions of the temple are approximately 50 × 100 meters. The basic plan of the building consists of a room with a columned entrance hall in front and a statue of the god inside.
Fragments of a colossal statue dedicated to Domitian were also found in the temple area, and today the head of the statue is on display at the Ephesus Archaeological Museum. Since the remains of the Domitian temple of Ephesus are limited, it is difficult to determine its original architectural features.
The Temple of Domitian and the Cult of the Emperor
The temple was built to recognize Domitian as divine and to worship him. Emperor Domitian aimed to gain a divine identity by deifying himself. In the Roman Empire, giving emperors the status of gods was a means of strengthening the obedience and loyalty of both the people and the elite class to the emperor.
During the Roman period, emperors often received divine titles and various gods were worshiped in temples dedicated to them. Domitian identified himself with Jupiter, and therefore it is likely that the temple was dedicated to Jupiter. However, the temple may also have been used to worship the Roman state gods, Rome and Augustus.
About Emperor Domitian
Domitian was the last emperor of the Flavius Dynasty. Emperor Domitian ruled the Roman Empire between 81-96 AD. He is known for his harsh style of rule and strict authoritarian practices. One of Domitian’s most remarkable characteristics is that he wanted to establish himself as a god. Domitian’s attribution of a divine status to himself led to his lifelong damnation (damnatio memoriae) by the Roman Senate, and his name and statues were destroyed in many places.
Domitian made many reforms in the Roman Empire, achieved military successes and accomplished great architectural projects. However, he was known as an unpopular emperor due to his harsh rule and conflicts with the senate. In 96, he was murdered in his palace.
The Temple of Domitian and Christianity in Ancient Ephesus
The Domitian period was a challenging period for Christianity*. The gradual spread of Christian communities, especially in Asia Minor, made Domitian uneasy. Domitian saw Christians as a potential threat and forced them to adhere to the cult of the emperor. These pressures under Domitian strengthened the religious commitment of the Christian community in Ephesus and made them more resilient.
Visit Ephesus and The Temple of Domitian with Professional Tour Guide
This little article unravels a small portion of Domitian’s story and its reflections in Ephesus. Contact me to learn more about Ephesus and to hire a professional, English-speaking tour guide for Ephesus Ancient City. See you soon, Hasan Gülday.
