The church as an instrument of urban change and continuity in Byzantine architecture: The case of Western Anatolia (Asian province-Thrakesion theme)

Throughout Late Antiquity, the Christianization of cities has long been the subject of various studies. Within this context, the locations of church buildings and the underlying dyncamics behind their placement have been examined through several regional approaches. However, no comprehensive study has yet adressed this topic specifically for Western Anatolia. In this study, drawing upon the extensive archaeological data provided by long-term excavations and research conducted in the region, the factors influencing the location choices of churches in Western Anatolia have been analyzed through the examples of Priene, Miletos, Hierapolis, Laodikeia, Aphrodisias, Pergamon, Ephesos, and Assos. The aim has been to identify the spatial and cultural characteristics particular to the region. Secondly, the continuity of Late Antique churches and the construction of new churches during the Middle Ages been evaluated to assess the settlement dyncamis and levels of urban continuity in these cities. In conclusion, it is understood that Late Antique churches in the cities were built within necropoleis, public spaces, and reused public buldings. In this respect, the site selection of churches in Western Anatolia generally follows broader Mediterranean patterns, while their placement was also shaped by factors such as the existing urban fabric, built environment, and issues of visibility. The condition of churches during the Middle Ages indicates that most Western Anatolian cities experienced a decline in population or were abandoned between the 7th and 9th centuries. However, evidence from church restorations and new constructions shows that an urban revival began in the 10th century. From this period onward, cities continuaed to exist as scattered settlements organized around fortified kastra. In terms of continuity, it appears that pilgrimage centers and cities situated within the estates of powerful landowning aristocrats exhibited a more stable and sustianed pattern of occupation compared the other settlements.