FATSA CINGIRT KAYASI 2012-2014 SEZONU KAZILARINDAN ELE GEÇEN AĞIRLIKLAR ÜZERİNE DEĞERLENDİRMELER

Abstract

This study explores Cingirt Kayasi, situated on a 200m.-high hill located in the village of Yaprakli, Fatsa. Excavations conducted in Cingirt Kayasi during the 2012-14 season revealed terracotta loom weights, which attest to the variety of weaving in the settlement. The article presents this variety from an experimental archaeological perspective. The reasons for the assumption that these loom weights were used in weaving have been backed up by the spindle whorls and needle hooks obtained during the excavations. Loom weights are regarded as defining parameters, functional for the operation of the warp-weighted loom. Experimental archaeological studies enable us to evaluate the state of the weaving industry in ancient settlements, from where we have obtained no remains or textile products. Therefore, this study attempts to assess the variety of weaving products in Cingirt Kayasi by taking into account the thread densities identified through experimental methods on the loom weights obtained in the excavations. The lead weights acquired from the excavations, in turn, have been treated as related to fishing activities. This interpretation is supported by evidence in the indings of underwater archaeological studies that revealed the lead pyramidal and folded weights were used as sinkers for fishing hooks and fishing nets. It is another goal of this study to explore the extent off fishery in Cingirt Kayasi based on these findings.