The large stadium or hippodrome of Ephesus was originally built in the 3rd century BC and continued to be used, for slightly different purposes, even after the rise of Christianity.

History

The stadium has been dated by an inscription to the reign of Nero (54-68 AD). But the Roman stadium probably replaced an earlier structure built during the rule of Hellenistic king Lysimachus (3rd century BC).

Ephesus' stadium was well-maintained over the centuries and even received a major rebuilding in the 4th century. Gladiatorial and animal combats fell out of favor with the rise of Christianity, but athletic games continued here well into the Byzantine period.

When Ephesus was mostly abandoned in the 7th century, much of the stadium was dismantled and its stone added to the fortifications on Ayasuluk hill.

What to See

The stadium was shaped like a long 'U' and measured 229m by 28m. The spectactors' seats on the south side were cut from the side of Mt. Pion, while those on the north side rested on vaults.

The stadium narrowed in the center, allowing the eastern section to be turned into an arena for the more gory spectacles of gladiators and animal combats. Wild animals were kept in small rooms nearby.

The principal entrance to the stadium was through a well-preserved monumental gate on the west side.