Topic outline

  • Enduring Lessons in Structural Engineering from the Hagia Sophia

    Credits: 3 PDH

    PDH Course Description:

    This course presents a comprehensive examination of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, one of the most iconic architectural and engineering marvels of the ancient world. Built in the sixth century under the reign of Emperor Justinian I, the Hagia Sophia is a testament to the ingenuity of early structural engineers and their ability to construct resilient systems using limited analytical tools. 

    The course explores the structural elements, materials, construction methods, and load-bearing innovations that have allowed the Hagia Sophia to withstand earthquakes, environmental degradation, and centuries of functional repurposing. It also considers the relevance of these design strategies to modern structural engineering, making the lessons drawn from Hagia Sophia enduring in both theory and practice.

    Topics:

    By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

    • Analyze the structural systems employed in the construction of the Hagia Sophia.
    • Identify the architectural and engineering innovations used to achieve stability and longevity.
    • Assess the materials and construction methods employed and their performance over time.
    • Examine the impact of environmental and seismic forces on the structure and its preservation.
    • Translate the principles observed in the Hagia Sophia to modern structural engineering design and analysis.

    To take this course:

    1.) Enroll in Course: Click below to enroll:
    (must be logged into your user account)


    2.) Study: Once enrolled, click below to begin the course:

    Download the Study Guide

    3.) Test: Once you've thoroughly read the course materials, please click below to take the final examination.

    Take the final exam

    4.) Certificate: A passing grade of 70% or higher on the exam, is required to receive the certificate of completion for this PDH course.

    Important – Payment is required prior to printing of your certificate of completion.

    We operate on a trust-based model. You are welcome to complete Steps 1 through 3 to fully review the course material at your leisure. 

    When you are ready to download and print your Certificate of Completion, we ask that payment has been completed for either the Unlimited Plan or individual PDH credit(s). Clicking the download button below serves as your digital confirmation that payment has been made.

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    Print the Certificate of Completion

    Intended Audience: This course is intended for civil, structural, architectural, historical, and geotechnical engineers, as well as preservation specialists and engineering educators. 
    Publication Source: Cadistics Courseware

    Donald Parnell, PE

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