The large bath complex known as the the "Baths of Scholastikia" or "Baths of Varius" is located behind the "Temple of Hadrian" on the north side of Kuretes Street, and is today entered by a stairway up from the street, to the right of the temple (see photos on gallery page 21). There is a second entrance along a narrow alley leading from the "Marble Street", between the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre. It was discovered by archaeologists in 1926.

Thought to have been built in the first half of the 2nd century AD (possibly around 117-118 AD) by the wealthy Ephesian Publius Quintilius Valens Varius with his wife, who also built the "Temple of Hadrian", the baths were renovated in the late 4th century AD by a Christian woman named Scholastikia, whose statue on an inscribed pedestal still stands at the site (see photo below). Parts from older buildings such as the Prytaneion were used in the renovation.

Covering an area of 13,751 square metres, the three-storey baths were constructed around a large apsidal hall. There was also a library and entertainment rooms, as well as a public latrine and the now infamous brothel, both of which are popular tourist attractions.