The Impact of Locally Available Materials on Architectural Heritage: Preliminary Findings from the Güzelşeyh Pavilion, Türkiye

Abstract

Understanding how local stones shaped material selection in historical structures is crucial for preserving architectural heritage and guiding conservation strategies. The current study examines the role of local materials in the construction and preservation of the Güzelşeyh Pavilion (GP), situated in the Çınar district of Diyarbakır, Türkiye. GP is unique not only for its use of basalt and limestone but also for combining these locally sourced stones into its architectural elements. This preliminary research assesses the pavilion's current condition and proposes possible stone sources for conservation. Located at the meeting point of volcanic rocks and Eocene limestones, the pavilion uses basalt for load-bearing elements and limestone for both decorative and structural components. The contrast between dark basalt and light limestone enhances its aesthetic appeal, while their combined application strengthens its durability. Fieldwork and laboratory studies, including mineralogical, petrographic, and geochemical analyses, were conducted to investigate the materials and their sources. Site investigations revealed that the pavilion, now largely in ruins, has suffered different forms of decay, particularly in its limestone components compared to the basalt. The analysis suggests nearby volcanic units as a probable source for the basalt, reflecting characteristics that closely match those of the region. Similarly, the limestone appears to align with materials sourced from quarries in Bağacık village, suggesting these quarries as a possible source for the pavilion’s limestone. By identifying these sources, the study offers practical guidance for conservation architects working to ensure the long-term preservation of the site.

Keywords

• Basalt
• Limestone
• Local material
• Stone conservation
• Güzelşeyh Pavilion

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