Caduceus or Rod of Asclepius?

3/6/2025

Caduceus in Ephesus

In the ancient city of Ephesus, close to Domitian Avenue, there is a pillar. According to some historians this is the symbol of caduceus and according to some Rod of Asclepius (God of Healing)

The caduceus is the staff carried by Hermes in Greek mythology. Hermes is known as Mercury in Roman mythlogy. In Roman iconography Mercury (Hermes), the messenger god is often depicted having a staff on his left hand. Hermes is also known as the guide of the dead and protector of merchants, shepherds, gamblers, liars, and thieves.

According to some Archaeologists, in the Roman times caduceus can also be used as the symbol of commerce and negotiation, The caduceus is often used incorrectly as a symbol of medicine for hospitals. due to the confusion with the traditional medical symbol which the rod of Asclepius, Although this has only one snake and is never depicted with wings.

The Caduceus symbol in Ephesus still keeps its mystery inside. Pergamum, located approx. 100 miles north of Ephesus was the city known with its Asclepion (Anecient healing center, temple dedicated to Asclepius). It is tought by the historians, Pergamum had one of the largest ancient hospitals where Dr. Galen served. Galen was the most famous doctor in the ancient Roman Empire and personal physician of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, worked in the Asclepium of Pergamum for many years