Roma'da Phryg Mermeri

Abstract

The basic elements of the historical, cultural and geopolitical structure of a region are closely related with the geographical position of that region. Geography is the destiny of a country and it determines the geopolitical power of a nation. The geopolitical position of the states appears as a determinant factor in their historical role. Asia Minor is a unique land from which many civilizations emerged and confronted with each other. Phrygia, as one of the most important kingdoms of the first half of the 1st millennium B.C. was located in west-central Anatolia. By means of its geopolitical position, Phrygia created an important role for the civilization movement from the East to the West and left a lasting mark on this era. Phrygia, as a pioneer kingdom, led to the transition of the light in the East to the West. The art, mind and mythology of the East transferred to the West through the agency of Phrygia. The richness of Asia Minor has not only been a source of living for the residents of Asia Minor but it has also been a colonial target for the occupying forces. Roman Empire became one of the colonial powers that exploited the natural resources of Asia Minor. Marble is one the natural resource that was obtained from Asia Minor by the Roman Empire. Marble is one of the precious stones that has been preferred in many different points of life and used as a construction item to show off by the upper-class. In this context, Phrygia, with its rich source of marble, was an indispensable region for the decoration of Rome. The Phrygian marble, called "pavonazetto" or "Synnadic" was brought from around the Docimeion and Synnada regions in Phrygia and embedded in Roman monuments. In our study we would like to state the Phrygian marble, as the natural resources of Asia Minor that was identified as one of the richest countries of the Ancient world and its transportation to Rome.