Modify to last – a Neolithic perspective on rebuilding and continuation

Research output: Contribution to conferenceConference abstract for conferenceResearchpeer-review

Neolithic architecture is characterized by continuous rebuilding and modifications. Almost every Neolithic building shows traces of modifications and rebuilding activities. These measures go far beyond the traces of regular maintenance and repair work. Based on case studies from Göbekli Tepe (Turkey), Aşıklı (Turkey), Çatalhöyük (Turkey), Shkārat Msaied (Jordan), and Ba’ja (Jordan), we will show how re-arrangements, internal additions, compartmentalization, stabilization works, etc. have formed an integral part of the architectural development to meet the requirements established by changing needs and social behaviour. In addition to the removal of wall segments and levelling of walls, walls are added, covering up earlier walls and establishing slightly smaller rooms. Most observed modifications seem to have been done in order to ensure the continued use of a (specific) space or a location. Sustainability is another key to the understanding of the rebuilding processes in the context of Near Eastern Neolithic architecture. Recycling of building material, e.g. re-use of roof beams, recycling of plaster, re-use of wall stones, and re-use of structural (load bearing) elements (e.g. T-shape-pillars), as well as the re-use of “grinder” and sculpture fragments as wall stones, is well-documented and sheds light on the “resource-friendly” thinking in the Neolithic.
Original languageEnglish
Publication date15 Jan 2018
Publication statusPublished - 15 Jan 2018
Event13. Diskussionen zur Archäologischen Bauforschung
21.– 24. Februar 2018: UMGEBAUT Umbau-, Umnutzungs- und Umwertungsprozesse in der antiken Architektur
- Deutsches Archäologisches Institut , Berlin, Germany
Duration: 21 Feb 201824 Feb 2018

Conference

Conference13. Diskussionen zur Archäologischen Bauforschung
21.– 24. Februar 2018
LocationDeutsches Archäologisches Institut
CountryGermany
CityBerlin
Period21/02/201824/02/2018

ID: 188672532