Architectural characteristics and construction techniques of domes in a group of Ottoman baths

Abstract

In Ottoman bath architecture, domes adjoined in varied numbers and sizes are structural element ensuring dynamic superstructure adjustment exterior and fascinating spatial features involving the interior lighting elements. The examination of cause-effect relationship in the original architectural and constructional characteristics of domes, the main elements of dynamic superstructure adjustment, is significant in terms of pointing out the retention features of construction details. In addition, informed knowledge for the purpose of contributing to conservation works of the baths is necessary to focus on in this dissertation. The aim of the dissertation is to identify the original morphological characteristics, construction techniques and use of materials and to investigate the relationship between architectural and constructional characteristics that involve span, height, thickness, bond types, the number and rows of oculi, the type of transition elements and the height of transition element and the exterior supporting elements of the dome. In this context, the domes of the studied baths were examined in term of construction techniques in superstructure integrality with their supporting elements. In this content; the original morphological characteristics, construction techniques and the use of materials on the Ottoman domes with their supporting elements, transition elements and frame of the domes from outside were examined by the use of conventional method through field survey and were studied in the framework of cause-effect relationships. In addition, statistical analysis methods were used and evaluated in order to examine the relationships between architectural and constructional characteristics of domes. This dissertation is significant in terms of contributing to cover a lack of knowledge in construction systems of domes and transition elements of the public baths for the purpose of constitution of systematic knowledge in leading protection and conservation decisions.