Unraveling the construction secrets of a 12th-century mosque at Chellah

What if we could unravel the secrets of how a 12th-century mosque at Chellah, a medieval fortified Muslim necropolis and ancient archaeological site in Rabat, was constructed? A recent study published by Science Direct delves into this mystery by investigating the materials used in the mortar of the mosque.

The research team collected samples from various parts of the mosque, including the ground, as well as the interior and exterior walls. They employed a range of scientific techniques, such as X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy, to analyze these samples.

The findings revealed that gypsum, a soft mineral, was used in the mortar of the interior walls, while lime and sand were the primary components. Additionally, the study noted the presence of calcite in two forms. The secondary form of calcite plays a crucial role in reducing the mortar's porosity and aids in the self-healing of small cracks over time.

These insights not only enhance our understanding of the components used in the mortar but also assist in preserving the mosque's original materials. The study highlights how ancient civilizations utilized local resources to develop their construction methods.

Originally built in the 12th century by the Almohads and later expanded by the Merinids in the 14th century, the mosque at Chellah stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity of its time.