Structural analysis of historical structures in Ahlat district

Historical monuments are priceless cultural assets that link the past with the future. Historical structures are also an indication of engineering accumulations, artistic understandings and economic situations of societies. The preservation of cultural heritage and the transfer with confidence to the future are at the beginning of important engineering research and application issues of the 21st century. There are many historical monuments belonging to various civilizations in the city of Ahlat which has many civilization cradles. In the study, the geology and seismicity of the region were given firstly. The general characteristics of the Ahlat Stone are mentioned that used in historical monuments which found in Ahlat. Information was given about historical monuments in Ahlat district. This study provided information about construction techniques of these structures. In-situ measurements were made for the historical monuments that considered in this study and the mapping process was carried out for these structures. The observation-based structural analysis form created for these structures was filled in for each structure separately. The current status of these monuments has been determined. The damages and causes of the damages are revealed. Structural modelling was done by using finite element method for selected historical monuments of different types (grave stone, tomb, bridge, minaret and historical wall). Seismic performance calculations of these structures were made and recommendations were made. This work has a separate prescription in order to be able to trace and evaluate historical monuments in the city of Ahlat, which has a rich historical heritage.