Mausoleum at Halicarnassus
Introduction
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, also known as the Tomb of Mausolus, was a monumental tomb built between 353 and 350 BCE in Halicarnassus, present-day Bodrum, Turkey. It was constructed for Mausolus, a satrap of the Persian Empire, and his sister-wife Artemisia II. The structure is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, celebrated for its architectural grandeur and artistic embellishments. The term "mausoleum" has since become a generic term for grand tombs.
Historical Context
The Achaemenid Empire
The Mausoleum was built during the period of the Achaemenid Empire, which was the first Persian Empire, founded by Cyrus the Great. This empire was known for its vast expanse, stretching from the Balkans and Eastern Europe in the west to the Indus Valley in the east. Mausolus was a satrap under this empire, governing Caria, a region in southwestern Anatolia. His reign was marked by a degree of autonomy, allowing him to implement significant urban and architectural projects.
Mausolus and Artemisia II
Mausolus ruled from 377 to 353 BCE and was succeeded by his wife, Artemisia II, who was also his sister. This practice of sibling marriage was not uncommon among the ruling classes of the time, aimed at preserving dynastic power. Artemisia is credited with commissioning the mausoleum after Mausolus's death, and she continued to rule Caria until her own death in 351 BCE.
Architectural Design
Structure and Layout
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus was approximately 45 meters (148 feet) high and was built on a rectangular base. The structure was divided into three main sections: a podium, a colonnaded section, and a pyramidal roof. The podium was a solid rectangular base that supported the entire structure. Above it, the colonnaded section featured 36 columns, arranged in a peristyle, which supported the roof.
Architectural Influences
The design of the Mausoleum was influenced by Greek, Egyptian, and Lycian architectural styles. The Greek influence is evident in the use of columns and the peristyle, while the stepped roof is reminiscent of Egyptian pyramids. Lycian influence is seen in the tomb's overall design, which was common in the region.
Sculptural Decorations
The Mausoleum was adorned with an extensive array of sculptures and reliefs, created by four prominent Greek sculptors: Scopas, Bryaxis, Leochares, and Timotheus. These sculptures depicted various themes, including scenes of battle, mythological figures, and representations of Mausolus and Artemisia. The friezes were particularly notable for their intricate detail and dynamic composition.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Symbol of Power and Prestige
The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus served as a symbol of Mausolus's power and prestige. Its grand scale and elaborate decorations reflected the wealth and influence of Caria under his rule. The construction of such a monumental tomb was also a statement of Mausolus's aspirations and his desire to be remembered as a significant figure in history.
Influence on Later Architecture
The Mausoleum's design had a lasting impact on funerary architecture. Its combination of architectural styles and its monumental scale influenced later structures, including the tombs of the Roman Empire and the neoclassical mausoleums of the 19th century. The term "mausoleum" itself has become synonymous with grand tombs, a testament to the lasting legacy of Mausolus's tomb.
Archaeological Discoveries
Excavations and Findings
The site of the Mausoleum was first excavated in the 19th century by Charles Thomas Newton, a British archaeologist. His excavations uncovered significant portions of the structure, including fragments of the sculptures and architectural elements. These findings provided valuable insights into the design and construction of the Mausoleum.
Current Condition and Preservation
Today, the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus is in ruins, with only the foundations and some fragments remaining. Many of the sculptures and architectural elements discovered during excavations are housed in the British Museum in London. Efforts to preserve the site and its artifacts continue, with ongoing research and conservation projects aimed at understanding and preserving this ancient wonder.