An Overview on the Political and Cultural History of Alabanda in the light of Coins

In this paper, the coins found during the excavations in Alabanda from 2011 to 2013 –presented in Catalog 1-11–– and some of the most significant examples of Alabanda minted coins – presented in Catalog 12-27— are examined. In light of the information gathered from these coins, the political, religious, economic and cultural history of Alabanda is discussed. The cultural traces in the city, which was inhabited starting from 4th century BC to contemporary times, are presented. The development of Alabanda in Hellenistic Period is emphasised and particularly the political changes could be traced through the coins. At the end of 3rd century BC, under the rule of Seleucid Empire the city became known as Antiokheia, however with the Treaty of Apamea of 188 BC, its rule was handed over to Rhodes and the name reverted to Alabanda. The city gained its freedom in 167 BC. These events are explained in detail with examples from the coinage of the city. The economic and cultural stance of the city in Late Hellenistic Period and under the Roman Empire are interpreted in consideration of the writings from ancient sources as Strabo, Vitruvius and Pliny. Farming and mining were the main sources of income and they are analysed through the information given by ancient sources and learned today. The level of prosperity and economical life in Alabanda are presented. The depictions on the coins minted in Alabanda are described; the gods and goddesses that were revered and worshipped in the city and the cult identities of political authorities such as Seleucids, Rhodes and Roman Empire are analysed. Alabandos, Apollon, Zeus, Artemis, Dionysos, Athena and Goddess Roma have been found to be in pantheon of Alabanda. Remains in the city, the coins found and other finds are examined, information about city’s circumstances in Late Antiquity and following years are given and its turbulences and changes throughout the Byzantine Era are laid out as information at hand permitted. Turkish-Islamic remains and artefacts found in the settlement known as Araphisar are described and examined