What do we know about housing for the people of Catal Huyuk? And why was it constructed in that manner?
Catal Huyuk was an ancient Neolithic settlement located in what is now modern-day Turkey. The housing in Catal Huyuk was constructed in a unique manner, and its study has provided insights into the lives of its inhabitants.
To understand what we know about housing in Catal Huyuk, we can turn to archaeological evidence and research. The settlement consisted of tightly packed rectangular houses made of mudbrick walls, with flat roofs made of wood and thatched with reeds. The walls were often adorned with plaster and paintings depicting scenes of daily life, animals, and various symbolic figures.
The interior of the houses had multiple rooms and levels, which suggests the existence of multi-story buildings. Each dwelling had its entrance located on the roof, indicating that the houses were accessed by ladders. This arrangement allowed for a compact architectural design, minimizing the need for ground-level entrances and maximizing the available space.
The reasons behind this particular housing construction in Catal Huyuk are not definitively known, but several theories exist. One hypothesis is that the rooftop entrances provided a certain level of security, preventing unwanted access and safeguarding valuable possessions. Additionally, the flat roofs could have served as usable living spaces or gathering areas for the community.
The tight arrangement of the houses also indicates a high population density and suggests a collective lifestyle. It is believed that the houses were interconnected, forming tightly knit neighborhoods or clusters. This communal living arrangement fostered social cohesion and facilitated the sharing of resources, knowledge, and skills, which were crucial for the survival and development of the community.
In summary, the housing in Catal Huyuk was constructed with mudbrick walls, flat roofs, and rooftop entrances. The compact design and communal living arrangements suggest a close-knit society with a focus on security, shared resources, and a collective way of life. Our understanding of Catal Huyuk's housing and its significance comes from archaeological excavations and the analysis of architectural structures, artifacts, and paintings.