Material Characterization and Damage Assessment of Byzantine Rock-Cut Monastery: A Case Study of Kiyikoy Hagia Nicholas

Abstract

Rock -cut historical structures have been constructed worldwide for various functions throughout history, including during the Byzantine Empire. The Kiyikoy Hagia Nicholas Monastery is an exceptional one of the surviving rock -hewn buildings in the Thrace Region. It has a basilical plan and was constructed in the Early Byzantine Period. The study goals are to provide original material characterization, suggestions for damage prevention and conservation measures for rock -cut structures of Byzantine architecture through this monastery case. Therefore, firstly the distinct architectural style of the building was revealed through a comprehensive analysis and by comparing it with similar structures. Then, a damage reconnaissance was performed and material samples were subjected to mechanical, physical, and chemical analyses and acid treatment experiments. Investigations focused on identifying the original materials and understanding the reasons for various decay and damage types observed in the monastery. Proposals for materials compatible with the original material, considering physical, mechanical, and chemical properties, were developed. The effectiveness of the characterization methods was explained. To prevent the effect of cracks, which is the main structural damage, constructing strengthening structural elements by using suitable materials was recommended. For non-structural damages, the removal of moisture in the main rock was recommended, and possible actions for surface cleaning, conservation and consolidation were described. It is concluded that the documentation, diagnostic and restoration steps developed for this monastery can be applied to similar Byzantine rock -cut structures.