Petrographic, geochemical, and isotopic characterization on the Provenance of Historical Marble and Limestone Columns from Tyana (Cappadocia, Türkiye)

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive geological characterization of marble and limestone columns from the ancient city of Tyana in the Cappadocia region, employing a multi-analytical approach. Mineralogical, petrographic, geochemical, and isotopic analyses reveal that the white marbles exhibit exceptionally high calcite purity and a well-developed granoblastic texture, closely resembling those of the Afyon-Dokimeion quarries. Gray marbles characterized by the presence of quartz and muscovite and relatively lower CaO and δ13C/δ18O values indicate a different stratigraphic level or different diagenetic/metamorphic conditions. In the purple-white marbles, hematite-induced pigmentation, coupled with markedly enriched Fe2O3 and MnO contents and isotopic affinities, strongly indicates a provenance corresponding to the Pavonazzetto variety of Dokimeion marble. In contrast, the limestone specimens, characterized by micritic fabric, bioclastic inclusions, and depleted δ18O values, are interpreted as locally sourced. The integration of mineralogical and isotopic distinctions among these stone groups underscores a deliberate and informed approach to material procurement in Roman architecture, reflecting the strategic utilization of both regional and local lithological resources.