Burial Customs in The Necropolis of KYME/İDÇ

Authors : Fuat Lebe

Pages : 27-52

Doi:10.22520/tubaar.1605678

View : 214 | Download : 502

Publication Date : 2025-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The İDÇ necropolis, one of the southern necropoleis of Kyme, constitutes the subject of this study. Between 2008 and 2011, a total of 618 graves comprising both cremation/urn burials and inhumations were unearthed in the necropolis. Among the inhumation burials, various grave types were identified, such as Carved Cist, Roof Tile, Simple Earth, Stone Cist, Sarcophagus, Amphora and Pithos graves. The studies indicate that the necropolis was in use over an extended period, from the 7th century BC to the end of the 2nd century BC. The grave types have been analysed by period, evaluating which types remained in use, which ones disappeared, and which ones emerged as new types during each respective period. On the other hand, a comparative analysis of the grave types with other necropolises of Kyme and other necropolises in different regions has been made. As a result, it has been determined that carved cist graves are not found outside Aiolis and represent a grave type unique to the region. In addition, the contrast between the simple architecture of these graves and their finds has led to diverse social and economic conclusions. The study demonstrates that a direct correlation between grave architecture and grave finds does not always exist, and that graves with simple construction can also yield rich finds. In conclusion, the İDÇ Necropolis is among the important necropoleis of Kyme not only for its variety of grave types but also for the richness of its finds. In this regard, the introduction of the Necropolis to the broader archaeological community is expected to contribute to the ongoing studies in this field.
Keywords : Mezar, Nekropolis, Ölü Gömme Gelenekleri, Kyme, Aiolis

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