Case Studies

Monitoring of the Fifth Minaret of Herat, Afghanistan

Ultra-high-precision monitoring, carried out entirely remotely, of the release and re-tensioning phases of the new post-tensioned cables stabilising the minaret.

The Fifth Minaret of Herat, shored with scaffolding and stabilised by post-tensioned cables, instrumented with the SuperMicron system.
Client
University of Florence, Department of Architecture (DIDA)
Location
Herat, Afghanistan
Sector
Vertical structures

A collaboration is underway with the Department of Architecture (DIDA) at the University of Florence for the conservation of the Fifth Minaret of Herat, in Afghanistan, a 15th-century structure approximately 55 metres high, now at high risk of collapse and included by UNESCO on the List of World Heritage in Danger. The minaret leans almost three metres from the vertical and is temporarily stabilised by a post-tensioned cable system, which will need to be replaced in the summer of 2025.

The SuperMicron system was used for ultra-high-precision monitoring of the release and subsequent tensioning phases of the new cables, an operation carried out entirely remotely. Monitoring remains active even after the intervention, allowing the behaviour of the cables to be monitored over time and supporting any adjustments related to seasonal temperature variations, thereby safeguarding the structural safety of the minaret.

Continuous monitoring ensures that structural stability is maintained over time, making a significant contribution to the preservation and safety of a site of exceptional historical and cultural value.

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