Mission Statement

Building archaeology and construction history

The buildings themselves are the most significant historical sources for the construction historian. In order to gain insight, the object is thoroughly surveyed and its state documented diligently in a first step. On the basis of this documentation, the history of construction, damage and repair can be reconstructed and analysed in detail.

Every historical monument has its specific links to a wider context of architectural and construction history. This context can be explored using archival sources and contemporary publications. With this background information, the monument can be evaluated as a testimony of the history of the building sciences and crafts.

In-depth knowledge and understanding of a monument is a prerequisite of its minimally-invasive intervention and conservation. Historical knowledge needs to be complemented by engineering and scientific methods of analysis, such as building physics, structural analysis, and chemical investigations.

The chair of “Building Archaeology and Construction History” addresses all these topics which are essential for the preservation of our built cultural heritage.