Identification and Typological Analysis of Ancient Theatres in Anatolia - Assessment of Their Protection Status

Oct 12, 2026

Anatolia preserves theatres from the Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman periods, notable for artistic and technical features. The study uses fieldwork and literature review to identify Anatolian theatres and analyze construction periods, preservation levels, excavation-restoration conditions, orientations, and plan typologies, presenting results via graphical data. It frames conservation as a multi-dimensional activity, citing international and Turkish legal and regulatory approaches to protection and preventive stewardship.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryGeneral

FormatPDF

Pages17

Reading Time6 min

AccessFree to download

Abstract

Introduction

Conservation and Restoration Framework

International and Turkish Protection Regulations

Context for Anatolian Theatres

Research Article GU J Sci, Part B, 12(4): 635-651 (2024) Gazi University Journal of Science PART B: ART, HUMANITIES, DESIGN AND PLANNING [http://dergipark.gov.tr/gujsb](http://dergipark.gov.tr/gujsb) Identification and Typological Analysis of Ancient Theatres in Anatolia; Assessment of Their Protection Status Kübra AĞIRGÖL1,*, Özlem SAĞIROĞLU DEMĠRCĠ2 1 0000-0001-9188-4494, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Gazi University, Ankara 2 0000-0001-6708-3208, Faculty of Architecture, Gazi University, Ankara Article Info Received: 12/05/2024 Accepted: 06/11/2024 Keywords Classical period, Theatre, Roman Period, Conservation, Preservation 1. INTRODUCTION Abstract Anatolia has hosted various civilizations from the beginning of history to the present. Some of the architectural works left by these civilizations have been preserved and survived until today. Among the works from the Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman periods, theatres stand out with their artistic and technical features and magnificence. Studies on the subject are related to partial or single structures. It has been determined that comprehensive research has yet to be conducted. This study, which used fieldwork and literature review as methods, has been aimed to examine the theatres from a comprehensive perspective, determine their levels of preservation, and contribute to the field of preservation. Within the scope of the study, Anatolian theatres have been identified and analyzed in terms of their construction periods, levels of preservation, excavation-restoration status, orientations, and plan typologies. The findings have been presented through graphical data. Even when considered in its literal sense, 'conservation' is a complex action that includes activities such as preservation, protection, stewardship, and taking preventive measures. Asatekin [1] has asserted that the first stage of conservation begins with determining what is worth preserving. Binan [2] has stated that"conservation" encompasses all limited resources with irreplaceable natural or cultural qualities. Tapan [3] has regarded conservation as an economic, physical, social, and scientific effort aimed at transferring natural or cultural assets to future generations. According to Erder [16], at the stage when humans established settlements, they developed a system for the protection of monuments. Ahunbay [4] has noted that while the history of restoration can be traced back to the beginnings of architectural art, the intellectual origins of restoration based on scientific methods began in the 19th century. The scientifically oriented approach to conservation and restoration has been shaped by the principles outlined in the Venice Charter. Although the Venice Charter has published as a result statement, it has not served merely as a conclusion but rather as the beginning of accelerating and intensifying conservation efforts on an international scale [2] . In addition to the Venice Charter, major international regulations have been established such as the European Convention on the Protection of Archaeological Heritage, the European Convention on the Protection of the Architectural Heritage, and the UNESCO World Heritage Convention. In Turkey has been designed to align conservation legislation with international standards with Law No. 2863, along with its associated regulations, principle decisions, and guidelines. Alongside these, regulations, agreements, and foundational texts addressing current themes and issues arising during the process have also been published. An example of a thematic regulation is the 'European Council Regulation on the Use of Ancient Performance Areas' (1997), which addresses the sensitivity of ancient theatres and the balance between conservation and visitor expectations. As a reflection of international developments, conservation legislation in Turkey has been designed to align with international standards through Law No.

FAQs

What methods does the study use to examine ancient theatres in Anatolia?

It applies fieldwork and literature review to identify theatres and analyze preservation-related factors.

Which aspects of the theatres are assessed in the typological analysis?

The study evaluates construction periods, preservation levels, excavation-restoration status, orientations, and plan typologies.

How does the article define conservation in the context of heritage?

Conservation is treated as a complex action that includes preservation, protection, stewardship, and preventive measures.

Oct 12, 2026

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