A Forgotten Roman Mausoleum In Darende, Malatya: The Architectural Features and Conservation Issues of the Ozan Monument

Abstract

The single-chamber temple tomb in Darende, Malatya, referred to today as the Ozan Monument, is a continuation of the mausoleum tradition that began to be popular in Anatolia in the Hellenistic Period. This type of tomb was built monumentally in the form of a Greek temple in order to deify, glorify and elevate the dead to the heroic level and also bestow upon the dead fame and honor. It is one of the outstanding examples of the Roman mausolea which have survived to the present day in good condition. Since there is no inscription on this monument, it is not possible to surmise the name of the dead or its builder. Its construction techniques, style and the features of its decorative components indicate that it was built roughly in the 2nd century AD. Overall on the monument there is some structural damage and surface deterioration on the stones. The biggest problem of the monument is the ruptures in the corner stones of the facades and the missing stones at the base and the foundation. Nonetheless, the monument has survived to today and has maintained its physical integrity to a great extent. The restitution drawings were prepared by analyzing the marks remaining on the building and similar temple tombs of the same period. The restoration project was substantially based on the restitution and the necessary interventions were determined to support the building in the best way possible and carry it to the future.