In the heart of Rize, Turkiye, stands the Şimşirli Mosque, a 19th-century architectural marvel that embodies the unique fusion of Asian timber traditions and Byzantine masonry. This historic structure, built using the wooden hypostyle technique, has withstood the test of time, but how does it fare against the seismic activity that frequently rattles the region? A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, led by Arzu Er of Akdeniz University, delves into this very question, offering insights that could revolutionize the restoration and preservation of historic buildings worldwide.
The Şimşirli Mosque, with its intricate wooden framework and stone masonry, is a testament to the ingenuity of ancient builders. However, its resilience against modern-day earthquakes has remained largely unexplored—until now. Er and her team subjected the mosque to a rigorous seismic performance assessment using linear, nonlinear, and kinematic analysis methods. The results are both reassuring and revealing.
Under the DD-3 earthquake ground motion, the mosque and its minaret demonstrated a “Limited Damage” performance level, indicating that while some damage might occur, the structural integrity would largely remain intact. Even under the more severe DD-2 conditions, the mosque achieved a “Controlled Damage” level, suggesting that while repairs might be necessary, the building would not collapse. “These findings underscore the remarkable durability of the wooden hypostyle technique,” Er explained, “but they also highlight areas that require attention.”
Kinematic analyses identified specific vulnerabilities, such as overturning, lateral bending, and vertical bending mechanisms in the front and right facade walls. These insights are crucial for developing targeted restoration and strengthening strategies. Er’s methodology provides a comprehensive approach to assessing the seismic resilience of historic mosques, emphasizing the cultural and structural importance of preserving this ancient tradition.
The implications of this research extend far beyond the Şimşirli Mosque. As cities around the world grapple with the challenge of preserving historic architecture in seismic zones, Er’s work offers a blueprint for scientifically informed restoration. For the energy sector, which often involves the construction and maintenance of infrastructure in earthquake-prone areas, these findings could inform more resilient building practices. By understanding how historic structures withstand seismic activity, engineers can design modern buildings that are not only energy-efficient but also more resilient to natural disasters.
Er’s study, published in the Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering, is more than just an academic exercise; it is a call to action. “The sustainability of this thousand-year-old tradition depends on our ability to adapt and strengthen these structures for future generations,” Er stated. As we look to the future, the lessons learned from the Şimşirli Mosque could shape the way we approach historic building restoration and seismic resilience, ensuring that our architectural heritage endures for centuries to come.