One of the impressive architectural works of Ephesos, this fountain was built by Claudius Aristion between 102 and 114 CE and dedicated to the Roman Emperor Trajan. The reign of Trajan, regarded as the second of the “Five Good Emperors” of the Roman Empire, is considered one of the periods when the empire was at its strongest and the welfare of its people was at its peak.
Located on Curetes Street near the Temple of Hadrian in Ephesos, the structure is two stories high and designed in a U-shaped plan. In its original form, the statue of Trajan stood in the center, with a globe symbolizing the world’s dominion of the Roman Empire positioned beneath the statue. With its 17-meter height, 11.90-meter width, and 5.40-meter depth, the fountain reflects the grandeur of its era. It suffered significant damage during the earthquake of 362 CE and was later rebuilt with some alterations.
Today, parts of the statue of Trajan, including his right foot, fragments of the globe, and sections of the structure’s facade, are located within the ancient city, while some statues from the fountain are exhibited in the Ephesos Museum.