Library of Celsus Tourism

The Library of Celsus, located in the ancient city of Ephesus in Turkey, is a beautifully restored structure that stands as a testament to the Roman architectural prowess. Constructed in 117 AD as a monumental tomb for Gaius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus, the Roman consul in Asia Minor, the library was also designed to store 12,000 scrolls and to serve as a mausoleum for Celsus, who is buried in a crypt beneath it. The façade of the library is an iconic example of ancient Roman architecture, with its two-story arrangement of Corinthian style columns and artful sculptures that depict various virtues such as wisdom and knowledge. The library's intricate details and grandiose scale made it one of the most impressive buildings of its time. Although the library was partially destroyed by an earthquake in the 3rd or 4th century and by a later invasion, the façade was re-erected in the 1970s by archaeologists, giving visitors a glimpse into its past glory. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Turkey, offering a remarkable insight into the rich history of the ancient world.