Architectural Features of the Agora(Bazaar) of the Ancient City of Anastiopolis (Dara)

Authors : Lale Karataş, Murat Dal, Devrim Hasan Menteşe

Pages : 163-186

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Publication Date : 2023-09-25

Article Type : Research

Abstract :In the ancient settlement of Dara (Anastasiopolis), there are structures that have survived from the 5th and 6th centuries and dated to the Late Roman Period. Agora, which is among the most lively and important structures in the ancient city, is very valuable in terms of forming the main artery of the city due to its location in the planning of the city in history. In the research, the findings obtained within the scope of the excavations carried out in the ancient city of Mardin Dara in 2020 were analyzed, and the architectural features of the shops in the agora were revealed and dated. As a result of the study, 9 shops were identified in the agora. It has been determined that the agora street, which runs along the river in the city, is in a position in connection with the Silk Road. This shows that the trade caravans coming from Mesopotamia entered from here, and the area was a public space reserved for the city\'s shopping. In addition, it is seen that there is more than one construction phase in the architecture of the shops. Unearthed architectural elements prove the multiphase structure of the city.
Keywords : Dara, Mardin, Architectural Analysis, Stone Masonry, Ancient City