Excavating the Vaulted Substructure at Anaia: Hydrographic, Iconographic and Epigraphic Lessons, lecture by Suna Çağaptay (Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University), American School of Classical Studies at Athens and Zoom, April 29, 2025, 7:00–8:30 pm (Greece)

This lecture focuses on the results of the excavations in the vaulted substructure at Anaia (Tr. Kadıkalesi), located in Kuşadası, Turkey. The building was initially constructed in the mid-fifth century to provide a solid foundation for the basilical church above. Our archaeological work helped us not to attribute a sole structural role. Hence, in this lecture, looking at the architectural, artistic, and epigraphic evidence, I aim to offer a more nuanced interpretation of this building.

The substructure features a tabula ansata inscription citing a prohibition against litigation on Sundays and stating “capital punishment” for noncompliance, as mentioned in the Theodosian Codex (2.8.18). Its vaults are adorned with frescoes that likely depict Moses crossing the Red Sea, revealing a hydrographic theme that harmoniously connects with the excavated remains of a hagiasma, set into niches on the east wall, as well as water infrastructure and drainage systems.

Examining the physical and literal references to water identified in the archaeological work while exploring this unique inscription by discussing its placement, function, and display, along with its related context, I would like to argue about the nature of “crime” and the dissemination of an imperial code in the form of a “capital punishment.” Elaborating on this inscription and its architectural and iconographical context, I would like to argue if it can be regarded as a “public text” by the Anaians and neighboring Late Antique cities. Additionally, I intend to delve into the archaeological evidence to discuss the evolving functions and significance of this intriguing vaulted substructure within the Byzantine chronology at Anaia, spanning from the early to the late Byzantine periods, and how all this can be contextualized within the microregional evidence in western Anatolia.

Suna Çağaptay is an Associate Professor of Archaeology and Architectural History at Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University.

Advance registration required for Zoom participation.