The Ancient Library of Celsus

By Jackie Craven, About.com Guide

The Library of Celsus was built on a narrow lot between existing buildings. Yet, the design of the library creates the effect of monumental size.

At the entrance to the library is a 21-meter wide courtyard paved in marble. Nine wide marble steps lead up to a two-story gallery. Curved and triangular pediments are supported by a double-decker layer of paired columns. The center columns have larger capitals and rafters than those on the end. This gives the illusion that the columns are farther apart than they really are. Adding to the illusion, the podium beneath the columns slopes slightly down at the edges.

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• Rome's Great Library in Ephesus
• Optical Illusions at the Library of Celsus
• Grand Entrances at the Library of Celsus
• Cavity Construction at the Library of Celsus
• Ornaments at the Library of Celsus
• The Brothel of Ephesus, Turkey

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