An Analysis of the Planar Vault under the Choir Loft of the Monastery of El Escorial

A planar vault under the choir loft of the Monastery of El Escorial defies traditional masonry principles by maintaining structural integrity without curvature, despite being subjected to compression forces. This architectural anomaly, analyzed through a study of its construction process and structural behavior, demonstrates that flat vaults can remain stable for centuries. The research employs geometric analysis and force transmission models to elucidate the vault's stability mechanism, offering insights into innovative masonry solutions in historic structures.

Elizalde, R. R. (2024). An Analysis of the Planar Vault under the Choir Loft of the Monastery of El Escorial. Buildings, 14(4), 1108. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings14041108