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Document Details : Title: In Search of the Plains of Gaugamela Author(s): SZYPUŁA, Bartłomiej , GŁOGOWSKI, Piotr , MARCIAK, Michał Journal: Iranica Antiqua Volume: 59 Date: 2024 Pages: 63-82 DOI: 10.2143/IA.59.0.3293982 Abstract : The aim of this paper is to contribute to resolving the long-standing topographical enigma of the location of the famous Battle of Gaugamela (331 BCE) by examining a specific aspect of the battle. Ancient sources suggest that the battle was fought on a broad, level plain with some uneven ground on one of its extremities. According to these sources, the vicinity of the battlefield was characterized by the presence of two other natural landmarks – a river situated close to the camp of the Achaemenid army and hills marking the position of the final Macedonian camp that provided a commanding view over the battlefield. While previous scholars assessed local topography on the basis of limited field experience or purely cartographic research of a qualitative nature, this paper employs modern methods offered by Geographic Information Systems, specifically slope parameter and viewshed analysis. Using these methods, we quantitatively assess two of the most important identifications of the Gaugamela battlefield: the Navkur Plain and the Plateau of Karamleis. We conclude that both locations are flat areas, although the Plateau of Karamleis is slightly flatter. However, several topographical features of the Navkur Plain are a better match for the criteria suggested by the ancient sources. |
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