Library of Hadrian

Architrave, front wall of library complex

Reconstruction of the front wall of the library complex

Base of column peristyle looking towards the library buildings (the distant columns are from a later construction)

Peristyle base in front of the library buildings

The buildings in the library complex, the largest with modern reinforcements being believed by many to be the reading room of the library

The only part of the complex that has extant columns is the portico and the outer wall with pedestal columns.

The portico columns are fluted and were Corinthian, this being the most popular column among the Romans. These columns supported a roof with a pediment.

The pedestal columns are unfluted and have Corinthian capitals, although these are much smaller than the columns used on the portico. It is theorized that at the tops of each column were statues of famous Athenians.

Bases of the columns and walkway of the peristyle are visible around the inside of the complex in front of the library and auditorium buildings, and elsewhere.