ISHS Acta Horticulturae 1189: VI International Conference on Landscape and Urban Horticulture
Unification of archaeological monuments: the case of Rotunda and the Arch of Galerius, Thessaloniki |
| Authors: | E.A. Polyzou, M. Balanika, M. Konstantinou |
| Keywords: | consolidation, historic area, 3D landscape design, Kamara, Rotunda, Greece |
| DOI: | 10.17660/ActaHortic.2017.1189.36 |
| Abstract:
Rotunda and the Arch of Galerius (Kamara) are important archaeological monuments of Roman period in the heart of the urban fabric of Thessaloniki. The Arch of Galerius was dedicated to celebrate the victory of the Roman Emperor in the East. Rotunda, the monumental round structure was originally part of the palace complex of Galerius. Many archaeologists believe Rotunda was initially used as a pagan temple, while others believe it was constructed to be used as a mausoleum for Galerius. It has gone through multiple periods of use and modification as a Christian church and a mosque. Both monuments dominate the landscape today and they become part of everyday life. The reason for choosing this subject is the significant degradation of the area despite its historic value. The aim of this paper is the unification of these monuments, so that despite their integration within the modern image of the city, they maintain their uniqueness, highlight their long history, improve the quality of life of the residents and enable tourists to visit the monuments. The inspiration of the design is a target; the target is a circle - simple, memorable and timeless - with a pattern of rings. The design target consists of concentric circles (rings) that start from the Rotunda, because of the significance of the monument. The existence of the Arch Galerius supports the definition of Rotunda as the centre of the circle and acts as the indicator of the final destination. The imaginary extensions of the surrounding roads act as radii of the shape, enhancing the Rotunda as the central point. The design proposal is an aesthetic, functional and environmental remodelling of the study area, contributing decisively to the improvement of public life and restoration of the historic area. | |
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