Building techniques in Rough Cilicia from the Hellenistic period to the Early Byzantine age. New research perspectives

The study of building techniques is a powerful tool to achieve the historical reconstruction of an archaeological site. This can shed light on the building procedures adopted as well as on the technical knowledge underlying the construction of different structures. Furthermore, the thorough analysis of building techniques can be very revealing to understand the cultural, social, financial and environmental context. Previous studies concerning building techniques in Rough Cilicia are mainly related to single building types or particular masonry techniques, thus leaving a gap for what concerns a general overview the matter. The aim of this study is to analyse the evolution of ancient construction processes through the diachronic analysis of the overlapping of local and imported building techniques, so as to understand how autochthonous people acted and were influenced by the wide phenomenon of Roman provincialisation. An attempt will be made to reconstruct, through the study of building techniques, the development of ancient construction sites, the identification of ancient projects, the finding and procurement of materials, the study of the formal aspects of the works, and, wherever possible, the tentative identification of patrons, architects, craftsmen, artisans and other people involved in construction activities. A case-study area will be chosen, the region between the Kalykadnos and Lamos Rivers within Rough Cilicia, during the historical period ranging from the Hellenistic period to the early Byzantine age. This area promises to be particularly significant for what concerns numerous and varied evidences of local, Hellenistic and Roman building traditions. The search method is based on the direct analysis of monuments and architectural evidence, and intends to achieve a careful typological description of building techniques, through the analysis of the stone material employed for wall facing as well as for mortar when present. The proposed investigation may be, in some cases, indicative of a transfer of powers and knowledge from the centre of the empire to the provinces, through the intervention of the emperor or through the effect of patronage networks connected to the figure of the emperor, or caused by the influence of local aristocracy.