Tetraconch_bath

Labraunda

The Tetraconch building, which was excavated in 2008-2009, was constructed as the sudatorium of a bath suite connected with a private residence or villa, dating from the early fourth century. This building complex appears to have radiated both eastwards and westwards from the Tetraconch, thus occupying a large part of the so-called Area Z of Labraunda (south-west of the sacred precinct). At the time of its construction the tetraconch plan was still a new and exclusive architectural form, representing the presence of a higher social stratum at Labraunda.

Tetraconch, plan from top.

The rich materials of Stratum 5 show increased activity within the area during the fifth and sixth centuries, and extensive restoration of the Tetraconch followed - this is perhaps related to the construction of the adjacent West Church Complex. During the late fifth or the first half of the sixth century the Tetraconch was reconstructed and given a new function, which is not possible to discern based on the preserved archaeological material.

Tetraconch, view from south.

This new utilization of the Tetraconch did not last for long: during the second part of the sixth century the building was reshaped again and given a more industrial character - perhaps serving as a lime-kiln. This period must have finally ruined the interiors of the building, and there was never a permanent occupation here again. Vague signs of activity are attested to during the eighth and ninth centuries after which the superstructure of the building seems to have collapsed. No substantial Late Byzantine or Ottoman occupation levels were recorded during the excavations.

Source: Felicium Temporum Reparatio: Labraunda in Late Antiquity (c. AD 300-600), Stockholm 2012, 33-92.

Tetraconch, proposal of a reconstruction (J. Blid).