Investigation of conservation problems of the Prophet Ellias (Elijah) Church in Izmir

Abstract

The Prophet Elias Church is one of the Greek Orthodox Churches that was built in the 19th century and has survived to the present time together with Aya Voukla and Doğanlar Church in Izmir. The purpose of this study is to examine the architectural characteristics and structural problems of this building while determining its values to be preserved, to assess conservation problems and to ensure that this structure is protected along with its original qualities. In line with this purpose, architectural measurements were taken to determine the present condition of the building by primarily employing conventional techniques, as well as, an electronic tachometer and two-dimensional drawings of the church were created in computer environment. Moreover, by means of visual observation, the architectural and structural characteristics, and structural problems of the building were determined along with the changes it went through in time. The information obtained was transferred to ArcGIS program to establish an information system that can be updated, and questioned and would allow addition of new information determined under different disciplines. By means of comparative study, historical research and a restitution study the original features and values requiring preservation of the building were determined. In the results of these studies a restoration project was prepared and the new function for the building is proposed as a multi-purpose hall. As a result of the study conducted, detailed information regarding the architectural characteristics of the building have been obtained while the conservation problems were examined and recommendations were made in regards to further studies to take place.