The Layout Typology of Anatolian Stadions

Abstract

Stadion lexically stands for a length of 600 feet and it connoted the fields where 600-feet-long running competitions were held. These competitions which took place in stadions were associated with the temple of the god/goddess. Thus, with several examples including Olympia and Didyma, stadions were located in the sanctuary. The stadions of Early Hellenistic Period were of a running field with a rectangular plan. However, under the influence of theatre cavea, a new technique was developed. As a result of this technique, stadions with single sphendone layouts began to be built in the sanctuary, in the town, or outside of the town. These stadions with single sphendone layouts were also opted for during Roman times but, as Romans had more developed architectural techniques, amphitheaters whose plan was also adopted to stadions were built. Additionally, stadions of double turn, double sphendone layout were constructed and even though the number of instances is small, some examples of these stadions still stand today. Although the architectural techniques were enhanced in the most Anatolian towns, the construction of stadions adhered to the topography. Therefore, stadions of single sided seating arrangements have also been encountered in Anatolia. In the context of Anatolia, the plan types of these structures are examined under typological headings.