Seismic Performance Evaluation of Historical Case Study of Armenian Architecture Tekor Church

Abstract

Masonry churches, which are one of the cultural heritages, show the historical background, cultural and religious characteristics of the cities and material properties. Churches in the earthquake zone, which are different from each other in terms of typology and have a special importance, are at risk. The aim of this study is to examine the earthquake behavior of a church sample in Turkey and to provide a guide for structures with similar typology. The building was modeled and subjected to dynamic loads using macro modeling technique. Free vibration mode shapes were determined by modal analysis, and it was determined that these modes were mainly in the form of translation of the upper part of the structure. In the time history analysis, the stress and deformation values were determined. It has been observed that the stresses take high values at the supports and top of the main columns and in the arches connecting these columns to the side walls. It was concluded that the deformations reached their maximum values at the apex of the triangular gable walls in the upper part of the building. The results obtained are consistent with the damage the church received in past earthquakes.