The medieval carpentry of the Basilica of St. Anthony in Padua

Abstract

Attics are often the most interesting rooms where to investigate historical construction techniques. Above the eight domes of the medieval Basilica of St. Anthony in Padua, lightweight timber structures attest to the use of rather archaic frameworks. The ongoing research on the domed roofs confirmed the preservation of their 13th-century configuration and the perpetuation of this model during later interventions until the 18th century. Based on on-site measurements, the study of archival material, and dendro-dating, this paper aims at shedding light on the constructing techniques and dating of the timber domes of St. Anthony. Results from the dendro-sampling campaigns provide evidence of 13th-century elements still in place. Moreover, cross-references between on-site findings and archival materials enable the tracing of the dendro-provenance of replacements from the 16th century. Finally, a short comparison with the timber domes of St. Mark in Venice and St. Justine in Padua enhances the importance of the ancient timber structures of St. Anthony.