Abstract
Hagia Sophia and Süleymaniye Mosque, built in the 6th and 16th centuries, respectively, are the two major monuments of the İstanbul World Heritage Site. Within the context of this study, sound fields of these two sacred multi-domed monumental structures are analyzed with a focus on their architectonic and material attributes and applied alterations in basic restoration works. A comprehensive study is undertaken by a comparative analysis over acoustical field tests held in different years and over an extensive literature review on their material and architectural characteristics. Initially, the major features of Hagia Sophia and Süleymaniye Mosque are presented, and later, basic alterations in regard to function and materials are provided. The methodology includes the field tests carried both within the scope of this research as well as the published test results by other researchers. Acoustical simulations are utilized for comparison of unoccupied versus occupied conditions and also for discussion on original materials. The impact of historical plasters on the acoustics of domed spaces is highlighted. Common room acoustics parameters as of reverberation time and clarity are utilized in comparisons. The formation of multi-slope sound energy decay is discussed in light of different spiritual and acoustical needs expected from such monumental sacred spaces.
Highlights
This research aims to investigate the effects of the main architectural features of monumental sacred structures on their interior sound fields
The historical significance of the monuments attracted the attention of different research groups, ending up with extensive data in the literature both in acoustics and in many other fields such as structure, material science, restoration, or art history
A comprehensive study on the acoustics of these sacred spaces is necessitated, by a comparative analysis over acoustical field tests held in different years and over wide-ranging literature on their material and architectural features
Summary
This research aims to investigate the effects of the main architectural features of monumental sacred structures on their interior sound fields. With their large volumes and multi-domed upper shell typology in the form of main dome spaces coupled to sub spaces sheltered either by domes or vaults, these historical structures have an outstanding and particular acoustical environment or so called “interior soundscape”. In architectural literature, domed structures are mostly observed in religious buildings. Sacred spaces have a specific role of emphasizing spirituality. The basic architectural features of such monuments i.e., the central dome and huge volumes, result in the long and shallow reverberant decay, contributing to the key role of holy spaces
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