The multi-breasted statue of Artemis of Ephesus is displayed at the Selçuk Ephesus Museum, symbolizing fertility and abundance. For a long time, the numerous round objects on the goddess's chest were interpreted as 'multiple breasts'; however, it has been suggested that they could also be bull testicles or other objects symbolizing fertility. The dress of the Artemis statue is adorned with figures such as lions, rams, deer, griffins, and bees; the belt around her waist also features bee motifs, a symbol of Ephesus. This design portrays Artemis as the 'Mistress of Animals' (Potnia Theron), reflecting her as the ruler of nature and wildlife.

Artemis, the chief deity of ancient Ephesus, was worshiped with a distinct identity as the 'Great Mother Goddess of Ephesus,' different from her counterparts in the Greek world. Considered the protector of the city, Artemis symbolized fertility and abundance. The magnificent Temple of Artemis, built in her honor with the support of King Croesus of Lydia, was constructed of marble in the 6th century BC and counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Artemis's fame was so vast that replicas of her cult statue spread across the Roman Empire, extending the fame of Ephesus beyond its borders. Symbols like the bee and deer became integral to the city's identity: The bee figure, frequently seen on ancient coins, is linked with the title 'Melissa' (honey bee) given to the priestesses representing the virgin goddess's purity. The deer motif, representing Artemis's hunter aspect and dominion over wild animals, was commonly featured on Ephesian coins and in art.

 

 

The multi-breasted statue of Artemis of Ephesus is displayed at the Selçuk Ephesus Museum, symbolizing fertility and abundance. For a long time, the numerous round objects on the goddess's chest were interpreted as 'multiple breasts'; however, it has been suggested that they could also be bull testicles or other objects symbolizing fertility. The dress of the Artemis statue is adorned with figures such as lions, rams, deer, griffins, and bees; the belt around her waist also features bee motifs, a symbol of Ephesus. This design portrays Artemis as the 'Mistress of Animals' (Potnia Theron), reflecting her as the ruler of nature and wildlife.

Artemis, the chief deity of ancient Ephesus, was worshiped with a distinct identity as the 'Great Mother Goddess of Ephesus,' different from her counterparts in the Greek world. Considered the protector of the city, Artemis symbolized fertility and abundance. The magnificent Temple of Artemis, built in her honor with the support of King Croesus of Lydia, was constructed of marble in the 6th century BC and counted among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Artemis's fame was so vast that replicas of her cult statue spread across the Roman Empire, extending the fame of Ephesus beyond its borders. Symbols like the bee and deer became integral to the city's identity: The bee figure, frequently seen on ancient coins, is linked with the title 'Melissa' (honey bee) given to the priestesses representing the virgin goddess's purity. The deer motif, representing Artemis's hunter aspect and dominion over wild animals, was commonly featured on Ephesian coins and in art.