On the way to Domitian Square in Ephesus, on both sides of the road, you can see the marble blocks with Hermes depictions on them. The one on the left hand side is in much better condition.

According to Greek mythology, Hermes (Roman name Mercury) is the god of travellers, merchants and thieves. When he is only three days old, he steals the herds belonging to Apollo. Then in order to placate Apollo’s anger, he wants to give a gift. He finds a tortoise, and out of the shell, he produces a musical instrument, the lyre.

Hermes is the messenger god. He carries news and Zeus’s orders among gods and goddesses. He is also responsible for carrying the souls of the dead to the other world (Hades). As he is very swift, he is usually depicted with wings on his forehead or his sandals. One of his most important attributes is “caduceus”, referred to as “wand of Hermes”, and it is depicted with wings, too.