South Gate Exterior

View looking north at the exterior of the south gate.  This gate was the southern entrance into the walled portion of Gerasa but another, very similar gate, “Hadrian’s Gate,” was located 365 yrs. [400 m.] due south of this one.  Because of their stylistic similarities, there were probably built at the same time—just prior to Emperor Hadrian’s visit to Gerasa in A.D. 129/130—he spent the winter here in Gerasa.

Note the central arched entranceway that is flanked by smaller arched entrances.  Note also the four engaged columns that are situated on four plinths (bases)—in typical Roman fashion.  The capitals at the top of the columns are Corinthian, but at the base of the columns note the ring of acanthus leaves—a rather rare arrangement.