Pergamon, Türkei. Ein großer Berg Arbeit? Konstruktionsprinzipien und Aufwand beim Bau des Yığma Tepe. Die Forschungsarbeiten von August bis Dezember 2022

Abstract

Although the embankments of tumuli constitute the monumentality of this tomb form, they have not received more attention until recent decades. At the Hellenistic Yığma Tepe Tumulus of Pergamon, it is recognisable that certain construction principles were applied, which show a good knowledge of the properties of earth building materials. The amount of labour for the construction of such a large tumulus can only be approximated by an estimate with the help of analogies within the framework of ancient building economy. Although this reveals a high cost for the filling, this is mainly due to the enormous dimensions. Therefore, the effort for earth moving should not be overestimated, as it is rather easy to realise.