Holocene coastal change in the ancient harbor of Yenikapi-Istanbul and its impact on cultural history

Abstract

An extensive rescue excavation has been conducted in the ancient harbor of Istanbul (Yenikapi) by the Sea of Marmara, revealing a depositional sequence displaying clear evidence of transgression and coastal progradation during the Holocene. The basal layer of this sequence lies at 6 m below the present sea level and contains remains of a Neolithic settlement known to have been present in the area, indicating that the sea level at similar to 8-9 cal ka BP was lower than 6 m below present. Sea level advanced to its maximum at similar to 6.8-7 cal ka BP, drowning Lykos Stream and forming an inlet at its mouth. After similar to 3 cal ka BP, coastal progradation became evident. Subsequent construction of the Byzantine Harbor (Theodosius; 4th century AD) created a restricted small basin and accumulation of fine-grained sediments. The sedimentation rate was increased due to coastal progradation and anthropogenic factors during the deposition of coarse-grained sediments at the upper parts of the sequence (7th-9th centuries AD). The harbor was probably abandoned after the 11th century AD by filling up with Lykos Stream detritus and continued seaward migration of the coastline. (C) 2011 University of Washington. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.