Craftsmen in Assos in the Light of New Inscriptions

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate inscriptions recently identified on the seats of the theater of Assos in the light of related literary and archaeological evidence. These inscriptions prove that craftsmen such as blacksmiths, leather-workers and stonecutters were working at the city during the Roman Imperial Period, providing us with information about the socio-economic aspects of the city. The location of these inscriptions in the theater demonstrates the social status of professional associations in the city and their significant roles in local economy. This also makes it possible to evaluate the importance of the city's natural resources such as andesite and valonian oak.