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Journals / Gephyra / 2026 / Volume: 31

The Ceramic Kiln of the Side Eastern Necropolis Production Area: Archaeology, Production Technology, Environmental Contexts, and Epigraphic Intersections

Serap Akca(ANADOLU ÜNİVERSİTESİ)
Volkan Öztekin(ANADOLU ÜNİVERSİTESİ, EDEBİYAT FAKÜLTESİ)0000-0003-2352-1493
Dilek Şen(BİLECİK ŞEYH EDEBALİ ÜNİVERSİTESİ, UYGULAMALI BİLİMLER FAKÜLTESİ)0000-0001-5035-7305
Journal
Gephyra
Pages
—
Publication Date
2026-06-20
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AI Summary & Key Takeaways

AI Insight
⚡ TL;DR(Too Long; Didn't Read)

In light of this data, it is evident that the Side Eastern Necropolis served not only as a burial ground during the Late Antique Period, but also as a multifunctional production center where the city’s economic and productive activities were carried out.

📌 3 Key Takeaways

🎯
Objective & Hypothesis:This study examines a ceramic kiln uncovered in Area 2 of the Eastern Necropolis Production Area at the Ancient City of Side.
📊
Key Findings & Data:Constructed using a combination of different types of stone, such as sandstone, conglomerate and travertine, the structure represents a kiln type with a near-circular elliptical plan, double walls and an updraft ventilation system.
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Conclusion & Impact:In light of this data, it is evident that the Side Eastern Necropolis served not only as a burial ground during the Late Antique Period, but also as a multifunctional production center where the city’s economic and productive activities were carried out.
🔬Design:Research Article
📍Scope:Comprehensive Sample
⚙️Variables:Pamphylia · Ancient City of Side · Necropolis

Abstract

This study examines a ceramic kiln uncovered in Area 2 of the Eastern Necropolis Production Area at the Ancient City of Side. Constructed using a combination of different types of stone, such as sandstone, conglomerate and travertine, the structure represents a kiln type with a near-circular elliptical plan, double walls and an updraft ventilation system. Stratigraphic data indicate that the kiln was constructed in the late 5th century AD and early 6th century AD and remained in use until the first half of the 7th century. With a diameter exceeding five metres, this structure can be classified as a high-capacity production unit. The kiln’s location on the periphery of the city, its proximity to water sources and clay deposits, and the fact that it was built embedded in sandy soil indicate that environmental and logistical factors played a decisive role in the production process. Furthermore, its spatial relationship with the nearby necropolis church and the inscription “ΠΑΥ” found on the kiln Wall point to possible institutional links in the production activities. In light of this data, it is evident that the Side Eastern Necropolis served not only as a burial ground during the Late Antique Period, but also as a multifunctional production center where the city’s economic and productive activities were carried out.

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Cite This Article

Akca, S., Öztekin, V., Şen, D. (2026). The Ceramic Kiln of the Side Eastern Necropolis Production Area: Archaeology, Production Technology, Environmental Contexts, and Epigraphic Intersections. Gephyra, Volume: 31. https://doi.org/10.37095/gephyra.1927012

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