Hellenistic masonry techniques in southern and western Anatolia

Abstract

Various Hellenistic masonry wall classifications have been given for Egypt, Greece, Persia, Phoenicia, Anatolia, etc., in literature. However, it is hardly possible to classify all masonry types in Anatolia because it varies regionally and has unique qualities. An important subject of research is what causes this diversity. Thus, this study aims to identify the original wall configurations and facings as well as the factors that define these structures by examining the undocumented walls in Anatolia's western and southern regions. Anatolian-specific composite techniques will be deciphered. The masonry techniques used in the walls of Caria, Lycia, and Pamphylia Regions, which are rich in examples of Hellenistic city walls, in the Western and Southern coasts of Asia Minor are compared in terms of their arrangement of blocks, wall profiles, and finishing of the faces. The first step of the method is a literature survey for determining the distribution of Hellenistic masonry walls in Anatolia. This was followed by a preliminary site survey. The dry-joint masonry walls that have sustained their authenticity and remain that have traces of their original composition were selected for accurate examination. Walls in Latmos, Alinda, Alabanda, Tekekale, Myndos in Caria; Sillyum, Side, and Perge in Pamphylia; and Oenoando and Isium in Lycia were examined. Their construction techniques and material usage were determined with the measured survey, visual analysis, and laboratory analysis. Also, the documented masonry patterns were compared with the masonry arrangements in different geographies of the world. Consequently, this study demonstrates that different masonry arrangements emerged in Anatolia as a result of varieties in the local environment. There are unique composite examples of integrating polygonal and ashlar leaves with headers and squat blocks in Anatolia.