The Late Archaic Fort in Larisa East (Aeolis) with an Emphasis on Masonry Techniques

Abstract

Ancient Larisa is located in Aeolis, dominating the fertile Hermos plain. The visible remains of the city date back to the timespan between the 7^th and 4^th centuries B.C., primarily illustrating a city under Persian rule. In addition to the excavations in the 20^th century, the site was thoroughly re-investigated as part of an architectural survey in the years 2010–2021. Recent studies have revealed the extent of the settlement on and around the two hills (Larisa East and Larisa West), including an extensive necropolis and farmland. The higher eastern hill was reserved for a strong fort and a smaller settlement on its slopes. The fort is notable for its position overlooking the plain, the river of Hermos and the surrounding mountains in the background. This paper explores the noteworthy remains of the fort crowning Larisa East, focusing particularly on its articulation, masonry techniques and stone working details. On site observations and comparisons with the already dated monumental buildings of Larisa West make it possible to identify the challenges of the construction and also probable building phases. New perspectives on the fort’s function within the larger urban area ›Larisa‹ and insight into the ambitions that drove the building of the fort are among the foci of the study.