Characterisation of historic materials - the case of Tao-I-Kisra Palace (Iraq)

0421876 - ÚTAM 2014 CZ eng V - Research Report
Slížková, Zuzana - Pérez-Estébanez, Marta - Viani, Alberto
Characterisation of historic materials - the case of Tao-I-Kisra Palace (Iraq).
Telč: Kloknerův ústav, České vysoké učení technické v Praze, 2013. 10 s.
R&D Projects: GA MŠMT(CZ) ED1.1.00/02.0060
Institutional support: RVO:68378297
Keywords : materials analysis * historic mortar * mud bricks
Subject RIV: AL - Art, Architecture, Cultural Heritage

The aim of this study is the characterization of bricks from the Taq-I-Kisra palace in southern Iraq (ancient Mesopotamian area). The palace is located in the plain of the Tigri river (see Fig. 1). The construction probably started around year 540 AD even if there is some uncertainty about its age. The arched hall on the facade is about 37 m high and is the largest vault ever constructed at the time (see Fig. 2). Originally conceived as an imperial palace, was later used as a mosque by the Arabs before being gradually abandoned. The historical constructions in this area are what remains of the capital of the empire. In accordance with geological data, in the area where the temple was built (and in general in the Mesopotamian area), the most available construction material was mud. Mud bricks were made mainly of clays. In ancient times there is evidence of mixes with sand, water, mud, and organic material, husks or straw.
Permanent Link: http://hdl.handle.net/11104/0230154