Determination of the Geometric Form of Hierapolis Theater in Pamukkale, Turkey

Researchers determined that the Hierapolis theater near Pamukkale, Turkey, exhibits a statistically significant elliptical shape when analyzed using precise surveying techniques. By employing an electronic total station instrument and applying an ellipse-fitting algorithm, the study assessed the geometric form of the theater's rings. Statistical testing revealed that an elliptical model best represents the theater's structure, providing insights into its architectural design. This finding challenges assumptions about circularity in ancient theaters and offers a method for characterizing similar heritage sites.

Arslan, O., & Kurt, O. (2014). Determination of the Geometric Form of Hierapolis Theater in Pamukkale, Turkey. Journal of Surveying Engineering, 140(3). https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)su.1943-5428.0000129