GEÇ ANTİK ÇAĞ ANADOLU’SUNDA ROMA DÖNEMİ ANITSAL ÇEŞMELERİNİN YENİDEN KULLANIMI: YAPISAL, İŞLEVSEL VE DEKORATİF DEĞİŞİKLİKLER
THE REUSE OF ROMAN MONUMENTAL FOUNTAINS IN LATE ANTIQUE ANATOLIA: STRUCTURAL, FUNCTIONAL, AND DECORATIVE TRANSFORMATIONS

Summary/Abstract: This study investigates the reuse of monumental fountains constructed in Anatolia during the Roman period within the context of Late Antiquity and the Early Byzantine era. It focuses on their structural, functional, and decorative transformations, while analyzing their role in sustaining urban life. Natural disasters, economic fluctuations, and socio-cultural changes brought about significant modifications in the technical, architectural, and decorative aspects of these fountains. In particular, the earthquakes of the 4th and 5th centuries AD prompted comprehensive repairs to their water systems and structural features. These restorations allowed the fountains not only to maintain their original functions but also to operate as castellum divisorium (water distribution terminals), supplying water to nearby houses, shops, and workshops. Revisions to their hydraulic systems, though often pragmatic or provisional, primarily sought to ensure more hygienic water distribution and to preserve the operational integrity of the fountains. Furthermore, with the rise of Christianity, changes were introduced to the sculptural programs and decorative schemes once displayed in these monuments. By tracing both the functional continuity of monumental fountains in Late Antiquity and their contribution to urban life, this article also highlights the ways in which these structures were reshaped by religious, social, and political transformations. Ultimately, Roman-period fountains not only addressed practical urban needs but also safeguarded the aesthetic identity of cities, thereby illuminating the processes of continuity and transformation within ancient urban centers.

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