The Celsus Library, certainly the most prominent monument in Ephesos, was built in the 2nd century AD by Gaius Iulius Aquila for his father, the senator Tiberius Iulius Celsus Polemaeanus. It can be interpreted as a shrine built over the burial chamber of the deceased. A public library was located inside.
The monument was destroyed during an earthquake around AD 270 and not rebuilt. The reconstruction, i.e. anastylosis, took place in the years 1970–1978. After 45 years, the anastylosis is in need of comprehensive preservation and conservation.
During the 2024 campaign, further preliminary investigations will therefore be carried out to record the existing condition and assess the damage to the building. A restoration concept will then be available by the end of the year. Implementation of the measures is scheduled to begin in 2025.
Project lead
Austrian Archaeological Institute (OeAI)
If you would like to support us, please donate to:
Gesellschaft der Freunde von Ephesos
BANK AUSTRIA AG
IBAN: AT96 1100 0052 1066 0600
BIC: BKAUATWW
Purpose:
"Donation Celsus Library 2.0"