Ashlar masonry, with its meticulously crafted stone blocks, has left an indelible mark on the architecture of various civilizations throughout history. In this blog post, we will examine the fascinating world of ashlar masonry, exploring its history, types, and some awe-inspiring structures that showcase its enduring beauty and strength.
What is Ashlar Masonry?
Ashlar masonry is a refined form of stone masonry where finely dressed stones of uniform size, shape, and texture are laid together in cement or lime mortar with equally sized joints at right angles to each other. The result is a sturdy and visually appealing construction.
The Strength of Precision
The hallmark of ashlar masonry is the precision with which it is executed. The joints between the stones are thin, regular, and of uniform thickness, enhancing the structural integrity of the masonry.
History of Ashlar Masonry
The origins of ashlar masonry are shrouded in the annals of history, dating back to ancient civilizations. One of the earliest examples is the Knossos Palace in Crete, constructed by the Minoan civilization between 2000 and 1500 BC. Ashlar blocks made of local limestone and sandstone form an integral part of this historical site.
In South America, the Incan civilization showcased their construction prowess by using ashlar masonry for the remarkable structures of Machu Picchu and Cusco. The meticulous craftsmanship of these walls, characterized by intricate details and unparalleled uniformity, stands as a testament to their engineering skills.
Types of Ashlar Masonry
Ashlar masonry is not a one-size-fits-all technique; it can take various forms based on factors like stone arrangement, joint style, and stone dressing. Let’s explore six distinct types of ashlar masonry:
1. Ashlar Rough Tooled Masonry
In this type, the beds and sides of the stones are chisel dressed, but the exposed face remains rough, creating a textured finish.
2. Ashlar Fine Tooled Masonry
Considered the finest type of ashlar masonry, all surfaces of the stones are meticulously chisel dressed to achieve perfectly horizontal and vertical joints, resulting in a smooth and closely packed finish.
3. Ashlar Facing
This type focuses on aesthetics, with rough tooled and chamfered exposed faces giving the building a distinct visual appeal.
4. Coursed Ashlar Masonry
Uniform-sized stones are used in this type, with alternating vertical joints to enhance wall strength. The lower layer’s joints are covered by the upper layer’s stones.
5. Chamfered Ashlar Masonry
This special type features a 45-degree chamfer around the perimeter of the exposed face, adding a unique design element.
6. Random Ashlar Masonry
As the name suggests, this style lacks a specific rule of placement. While it may appear random, it requires careful craftsmanship to maintain harmony and proportion.
Great Monuments with Ashlar Masonry
Several iconic structures around the world showcase the enduring beauty and strength of ashlar masonry:
1. Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu is renowned for its dry stone walls, constructed without mortar. These walls, crafted with precision, continue to stand tall against the test of time.
2. Pyramid of Menkaure, Cairo
Located in Egypt, this pyramid features ashlar granite in its construction, demonstrating the versatility of this masonry technique.
3. Royal Tombs, Mycenae, Greece
Ashlar masonry was used to create the ‘beehive’ dome in the Royal Tombs of Mycenae, showcasing the resilience of rocks like granite, bluestone, and sandstone in this artful construction.
In conclusion, ashlar masonry is not just a construction technique; it’s a testament to human ingenuity and craftsmanship. Its legacy lives on in the remarkable structures that continue to captivate our imagination and admiration. Whether you’re a builder in the construction industry or simply an admirer of architectural marvels, ashlar masonry is a topic that never ceases to inspire.