Harbour Street (Arkadiane Street): The Grand Entrance to Ancient Ephesus

Introduction

One of the most majestic avenues of ancient Ephesus, Harbour Street—also known as Arkadiane Street—once served as the grand ceremonial and commercial entrance to the city. Stretching from the Great Theatre to the Harbour of Ephesus, this broad, colonnaded boulevard was a symbol of the city’s connection to the Mediterranean world.

Historical Significance

Originally built during the Hellenistic period, Harbour Street was later renovated and expanded during the 5th century AD, under Emperor Arcadius, from whom the street gets its name. It was designed not just for daily use but also for imperial parades, processions, and to impress visitors arriving from the sea.

Architectural Features

• Approximately 530 meters long and 11 meters wide.
• Lined with marble columns, creating a grand colonnade on both sides.
• Featured street lighting with oil lamps—a rarity for ancient cities.
• Paved with large marble slabs and connected key structures like the Harbour Baths and Theatre Gymnasium.

Life Along Harbour Street

• The street functioned as both a ceremonial route and a bustling commercial hub.
• Shops, fountains, and administrative buildings once lined its sides.
• Visitors arriving by ship would enter Ephesus via this avenue, greeted by majestic urban architecture.

Today’s Visitor Experience

• While the ancient harbour has long silted up, Harbour Street still leads visitors through a dramatic visual corridor ending at the Great Theatre.
• Remains of the colonnades, marble pavements, and monumental facades are visible.
• Great for panoramic photography and understanding the city’s scale and urban design.