Characteristics of Irregular Column Capitals in Ottoman Mosques with Courtyards

Abstract

The aim of this article is to examine the construction techniques of theirregular column capitals which are located at the junction of portico andcourtyard arcades (revak) of six Ottoman mosques. The porticos heightof the closed-courtyard mosques built during the Ottoman periodregarding is mostly equal. However, in six cases, the porticos of themosques are higher than their side porticos, which led alternativesolutions to keep the continuity of the arcade surrounding the courtyard.The first phase of this study focuses on the construction techniques andmaterials of the column capitals in Ottoman architecture and the secondphase deals with irregular capitals including their characteristics (sizes,materials, and relations with other building elements). For this purpose,detailed drawings were prepared through the site examinations and theliterature review. As a result, despite that their size and shape varydepending on construction period, the relationship between last prayerhall and courtyard, structural aspects, and visual concern, theirconstruction techniques, materials, and components show similarproperties.