The Power of Geometric Relationships in Mudéjar Timber Roof Frames

Abstract

Research into the modulation, proportions and units of measurement inherent to historical buildings confirms the existence of modules based on standard units of measurement, anthropometric measurements and various proportional relationships. This article examines a system based on the use of timber width as a unit of measurement and a base construction module. This system was used to build complex timber roof frames across a broad geographic and temporal scope, stretching from the Iberian Peninsula to large expanses of North Africa and from the Late Middle Ages to the beginning of the Renaissance. The principal aim of this study is to demonstrate the power of that system which, as shown in this article, allows us to recreate today a large portion of a roof frame geometry based on a tiny fragment of the structure to which it belongs, with relevance both to design and to historic preservation.