Transmission of Traffic-induced Vibrations on and around the Minaret of Little Hagia Sophia

Abstract

ABSTRACTWorldwide urbanization has caused heritage buildings to be in ever-closer proximity to heavily travelled roadways and railways. As an example of this, the minaret of Little Hagia Sophia was analyzed due to its historic prominence and close proximity to heavy rail traffic. A vibration measurement program was performed on and around the minaret. After material properties were determined, three-dimensional numerical model of the minaret was constructed and validated based on frequency analyses of measured vibrations and modal analysis. Self-weight analysis and linear time-history analyses were applied to the model using ground motions measured at the minaret’s base. The results showed that stresses reached 32% of material strength and, critically, measured peak particle velocities of vibrations at times approached previously established damage thresholds. Therefore, construction and operation of traffic lines adjacent to heritage buildings in city centers should be analyzed carefully to prevent unintentional impacts on cultural heritage structures.