The Ancient Necropoles of Limyra

This publication presents the results of an extensive survey of the Lycian funerary monuments in Limyra, a prominent site in the classical world. In the eleven burial areas studied, the rock-cut chamber tombs, sarcophagi and freestanding monumental tombs, some of which bear reliefs and inscriptions reach a total number of 430 and predominantly date from the fourth century B.C . In addition to Greek and Lycian, Aramaic also appears to be used in the inscriptions. Earlier studies had selectively focussed only on a few tombs for their inscriptions and relief decorations. This is the first analytical study that systematically documents the entire funerary evidence from Limyra. Each tomb has been catalogued, photographed and supplemented with an analysis of its architecture and decoration. Some of the results of the analysis are the following: the theory that the tomb façades were modeled after now-lost wooden architecture was discussed and new evidences from Limyra were added. This methodological research helped to show that even the undecorated plain tombs reveal invaluable information. Thanks to the results of typological analysis, we understand now that a specific type, peculiar to this area that combined the façade with a certain interior was designed mainly in Limyra. Observations on the tool marks show the techniques of stone masons as well as their methods of repair and reuse after the tombs were damaged or robbed already in antiquity. We are also able to gain new insights into funerary customs and the use of necropolis in the Lycian society. Greek decorative elements on the facades and possible Persian elements in the interiors show aspects of cultural interactions. The detailed analysis shows that the Greek influence was not so dominant contrary to earlier observations. Finally new ideas were introduced into the discussion of dating the façades in detail. In summary this publication sheds light on a very important period in the history of Limyra and Lycia during the fourth century B.C.