Protection of Cultural Heritage: the Case of Stratonikeia North City Gate and Fountain Monument

Abstract

Stratonikeia, located in Eskihisar neighborhood of Yatağan District, Muğla Province, was a significant settlement in interior Caria during antiquity. Archaeological investigations have revealed evidence of ancient life and natural disasters, with seismic activity as crucial factor. The 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake has heightened awareness of seismic threats to ancient ruins. The North City Gate complex exemplifies patterns of destruction and renewal, as seen after the 139 AD earthquake when Emperor Antoninus Pius provided 25,000 denarii for reconstruction. Construction expanded to include the Fountain Monument, North City Gate, North Colonnaded Street, and other Roman Imperial Period edifices. Following the 365 AD earthquake, repairs were overseen by Maximus of Stratonikeia, with the most recent significant seismic event in 1957. Current excavations continue to reveal evidence of historical seismic events, providing data for heritage preservation. The site's architectural features have been restored using anastylosis methodology to preserve cultural heritage for future generations. © 2025 by IGI Global Scientific Publishing. All rights reserved.