“Chamber A” Identified in the Eastern Analemma Filling of the Metropolis Theater: A Functional Implementation Planned with Roman Structural Engineering

Abstract

In the excavations and researches conducted thus far at the ancient city of Metropolis, the largest structure identified on a Hellenistic urban scale is the theatre, located on the southern slopes of the hill upon which the city was founded. Constructed in the mid-2nd century BC, the Metropolis Theatre stands as one of the best-preserved examples of Hellenistic theatre architecture, comprising key components such as the koilon, orchestra, and skene. Various additions and modifications were made to the structure during different phases of the Roman Imperial period. One such modification occurred in the east analemma fill of the koilon. In 2018, archaeological excavations in this fill area uncovered a structure designated as ‘Chamber A’. This study focuses on the function of Chamber A and its relationship with the surrounding spaces. Furthermore, the construction process of Chamber A within the theatre -encompassing its materials, techniques, and workmanship- was examined. Based on archaeological context findings, it has been determined that the structure was built in the first half of the 1^st century AD.

It is declared that scientific and ethical principles were complied with during the preparation of this study and all the works referred are mentioned in the bibliography.

The Author(s) declare(s) that there is no conflict of interest.