Roman basilicas were public buildings used by imperial officials, city magistrates and businessmen. Vitruvius recommends that they be located “at the warmest point” of the city. Opening to the south, the basilica of Smyrna, 160 m. long and 29 m. wide, with three stories, is the largest known basilica of the Roman world, after the basilica of Trajan at Rome. Several columns remain on the ground floor of the central gallery. The second story was decorated with reliefs, among them that of Poseidon and Amphitrite (opposite) now displayed in the Museum of Art and History.
The well-preserved lowest floor of the basilica, which is partially underground, opened onto an avenue below the Agora to the north. The basilica was rebuilt many times after its original construction, until it was finally abandoned.
The Graffiti
Painted on the stucco that covers the two northern galleries of the lowest floor of the basilica, these inscriptions and drawings constitute a remarkable discovery. To protect them, the stucco is covered by a temporary roof and sheeting.