Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The Nicaea (İznik) Roman Theater, one of the monumental structures of the Bithynia Region, has hosted the artistic, cultural, and social dynamics of the city for centuries, starting from its construction process that began during the reign of Emperor Trajan (98-117 AD). In addition to its architectural grandeur, the structure bears tangible traces of the daily life and social interactions of the city’s inhabitants. The incised game boards (graffiti), which constitute the most remarkable examples of these traces, are of great importance in terms of reflecting the leisure activities of ancient people and the non-event utilization of public spaces. Although there are comprehensive studies in the literature on ancient gaming culture, the presence of numerous graffiti that have not yet been documented and examined in archaeological sites points to a serious scientific gap in this field. Aiming to address this deficiency, this study focuses on nine graffiti game boards identified on the architectural blocks of the Nicaea Roman Theater.
Author: Nihal Kardoruk
Institution: Ministry of Culture and Tourism
Language: Turkish
Topic: Classical Antiquity Studies
Subfield: Classics
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7214925950