Analysing Construction and Building Techniques of Neogothic Stellar Vaults

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In this article, we present a point cloud-based geometric analysis method applied to the 19th-century stellar vaults of the Saint Elisabeth Cathedral of Košice (SK). We based our analysis method on the geometric typology systems we worked out for net vaults during our earlier research. After elaborating on the method’s application to stellar vaults, we present the results of the analysis. This includes the exact geometric description of the vaults’ webbing and rib system, which allowed for deductions about their original construction techniques. Then, we present the re-modelling of the rib systems of the cathedral’s stellar vaults based on the most influential theoretical works of the 19th century (B. Ranisch, F. Hoffstadt, G. G. Ungewitter), such as the principle of the longest route or projecting the junction points to a spherical surface. Afterwards, the comparative analysis of the real vault geometries and the re-modelled rib systems was carried out. Based on this, we discussed the potential reason behind the differences detected. This gives a valuable insight into whether the 19th-century theoretical works and their contemporary building practices differed. Additionally, we elaborated on the implications of the multiple possible three-dimensional geometries of the same rib pattern regarding the authenticity of theoretically reconstructed stellar vault structures.