GIS INVESTIGATION OF SITE SELECTION OF HISTORICAL STRUCTURES: THE CASE OF KNIDOS (DATÇA, TURKEY)

Abstract

In archaeological research, the collection, storage, query and analysis of data is conducted with the help of the Geographical Information System (GIS) in order to acquire the most accurate information about the area. Spatial analyses made with the help of GIS in ancient cities contribute to revealing the social, cultural and survival features of these cities. The aim of this study is to examine the rationale for spatial site selection in Knidos ancient city, which is in the Turkish province of Muğla and which has different city planning with its geographical features. For this reason, firstly, a digital elevation model that reveals the topography of the city was constituted. Then, the database design and spatial analyses (slope, aspect and visibility) were conducted in line with the aim of the study in ArcGIS 10.2 Software. The site selection rationale for structures was evaluated through spatial analyses (slope, aspect and visibility) in Knidos ancient city. Site selection rationales of the historical structures have been ascertained related to the preferred planning form of the period (grille planning), the geography of the city, the functions given to the historical structures, the visibility of structures, the ports which were as a focal point of the city, the ideological point of view and the reflection power of the ruler's.