The aim of the project was to conduct detailed architectural research on Tomb 8 from the Tombs of the Kings necropolis in Nea Paphos, Cyprus (covering its form, structure, and architectural decoration), along with a comparative analysis of analogous tombs from ancient Macedonia and Egypt, which exerted strong artistic influences on the island. This analysis allows the architecture of the studied monument to be placed within the broader context of the Eastern Mediterranean. Since Tomb 8 is dated to the Hellenistic period, it constitutes an exceptionally valuable monument against the background of the predominantly Roman architecture of Nea Paphos. The objective of the research was therefore not only to expand knowledge about the tomb itself and, more broadly, about the necropoleis of Paphos, but also about the ancient city during the little-studied Hellenistic period in terms of architecture.
The primary task of the research project was to prepare documentation of the architecture of Tomb 8. The entire structure of the hypogeum was documented. The tomb was also equipped with rich architectural decoration attached to the rock structure, which was destroyed already in antiquity, most likely during an earthquake. Its elements lay in the form of mixed debris, which significantly complicated the identification of individual architectural structures.
As part of the research, the form was determined and 196 fragments of architectural decoration were documented: 3 slabs; 53 column fragments (9 bases, 5 capitals, 39 drums); 6 imposts; 3 types of architraves (18, 13, and 2 elements respectively); 15 ceiling slab fragments; 22 fragments of a horizontal cornice with gutter; fragments of two different triangular pediments consisting of horizontal and raking cornices (4 fragments of a dentil cornice, including 2 corners; and 17 fragments of a cornice with linear moulding, including 3 corners and 14 raking elements); 5 fragments of other cornices; 4 pilaster fragments; 2 covers of loculi; 6 fragments of small cippi; 4 acroteria; 1 fragment of a frieze; 1 fragment of a naiskos; 3 blocks with relief decoration in plaster; 4 partition-wall blocks; 3 doorjamb blocks; 2 voussoirs; and 1 block with a slanting upper surface.
The fragments of architectural decoration were described, measured, and photographed during fieldwork. Subsequently, 3D models were produced, which served as the basis for the preparation of 2D documentation of the tomb and its decorative blocks (plans, sections, elevations). The next stage consisted of a 3D reconstruction of the entire tomb and its architectural setting.
Please consult the Readme.txt file for additional information.
(2025-08-21)
