The Medieval Carpentry of the Basilica of St Anthony in Padua


Date

2023

Publication Type

Journal Article

ETH Bibliography

yes

Citations

Altmetric

Data

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 onsite measurements, 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 evidences 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.

Publication status

published

Editor

Book title

Volume

8 (SI2)

Pages / Article No.

78 - 90

Publisher

Ar.Tec.

Event

Edition / version

Methods

Software

Geographic location

Date collected

Date created

Subject

timber; dome; superstructures; dendro-analyses; medieval; Padua

Organisational unit

09581 - Holzer, Stefan M. / Holzer, Stefan M. check_circle

Notes

Funding

185341 - The Basilica of Sant' Antonio at Padua - Deciphering the building history of a landmark pilgrimage church (SNF)

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