Ephesus · Monument
Curetes Street
The grand, monument-lined avenue through the heart of Ephesus.
Key facts
- Location
- Ephesus Ancient City
- Ticket
- Included in Ephesus entry
- Time needed
- Part of the main walk
- Highlight
- Marble street & monuments
Curetes Street is the marble spine of Ephesus — the grand, monument-lined avenue that carries you downhill through the heart of the ancient city.
The heart of the city
Running from the Hercules Gate down to the Library of Celsus, Curetes Street was the ceremonial thoroughfare, paved in marble and lined with shops, fountains, statues and public buildings. It takes its name from the Curetes, a college of priests. Look down and you'll spot the ruts of ancient cart wheels and patches of mosaic pavement.
What you pass
Walking down you take in the Temple of Hadrian, the Terrace Houses, the Trajan Fountain, the public latrines and the Scholastica Baths, before the street opens dramatically onto the Library of Celsus. It's the best single walk in Ephesus.
Visitor tip
The marble is polished and slippery and the slope is gentle but continuous — sensible shoes make all the difference.
On the map
Photos
Do the full Ephesus walk
Book a guided tour and walk Curetes Street with the stories behind every stone.
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