Terrace House 2 in Ephesus. Dwelling Units 3 and 5

Due to its exceptional state of preservation, Terrace House 2 in Ephesus is one of the most significant examples of Roman residential architecture. Hardly any other ancient domestic building has been published in multiple volumes with comparable detail; the reconstruction of its architectural development and usage history is considered a standard reference in Mediterranean archaeology and architectural research. This volume now fills an important gap: for the first time, the previously unpublished dwelling units 3 and 5 are presented in full. This fulfills a long-standing research need and further completes the overall picture of Terrace House 2. The two residential units on the middle building terrace were constructed in the early 1st century CE as so-called peristyle houses, i.e., dwellings whose rooms are organized around a column-enclosed inner courtyard. Until their destruction by an earthquake in the third quarter of the 3rd century, they were rebuilt, modernized, and refurnished several times. Following the proven publication concept of the Hanghaus volumes, this richly illustrated volume guides readers through this history of construction and use, presenting not only the architectural remains but also the impressive interior decoration, which features colorful wall paintings, ornate mosaic floors, and high-quality marble revetments. Archaeological investigations below ground level provide further insight: they show that the site was already in use during the Hellenistic period. Other findings reveal that a so-called mill cascade was established in the western part of the dwelling units during the Early Byzantine perioda sign of changing economic and social conditions following the end of the Roman heyday. This picture is complemented by numerous objects made of ceramic, glass, bronze, marble, and terracotta, which were found both in the two houses and below ground level. Furthermore, the graffiti preserved on the wall paintings provide direct insights into the daily lives of the inhabitants. Based on a contextual analysis of the building structure, the décor, and the artifacts, the study examines how the individual rooms were used and what conclusions can be drawn regarding social status and ownership. Although direct evidence of names is lacking, structural interconnections and renovations occasionally suggest joint ownership or at least close functional ties between the individual houses of Terrace House 2. In any case, the architecture and furnishings make it clear that the residents of dwelling units 3 and 5 belonged to the urban elite: despite their comparatively small size, both houses featured distinct rooms for representation and receiving guests. Their high-quality design demonstrates how social status could be effectively showcased even within a limited space.

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