ashlar masonry

building material

Also known as: cut stone

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Last updated

June 18, 2026

Quick Summary

Ashlar masonry is a construction technique that uses dressed or squared stones, often with a proper bond, to build structures. This method is considered the strongest and most suitable for monumental architecture. Unlike rubble masonry, which uses roughly broken stones, ashlar masonry employs precisely cut blocks, typically rectangular.123

While stone masonry, especially ashlar, doesn't always require mortar for stability when supporting direct downward loads, the precision in shaping the blocks is key. This technique has been used since ancient times, with examples found in structures like Egyptian temples.34

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architecture
Stone
…stonework for monumental architecture is ashlar masonry, which consists of regularly cut blocks (usually rectangular). Because of its weight and the precision with which it can be shaped, stone masonry (in contrast with brick) does not depend on strong bonding for stability where it supports only direct downward loads. The…
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…stonework for monumental architecture is ashlar masonry, which consists of regularly cut blocks (usually rectangular). Because of its weight and the precision with which it can be shaped, stone masonry (in contrast with brick) does not depend on strong bonding for stability where it supports only direct downward loads. The…
Read More

history of Transcaucasia
Ashlar masonry was used there instead of the bricks more common in Byzantine architecture. The most extensive remains of this kind are in the ruins of the city of Ani (modern Ocaklı) in Turkey, across the border from Armenia.
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Ashlar masonry was used there instead of the bricks more common in Byzantine architecture. The most extensive remains of this kind are in the ruins of the city of Ani (modern Ocaklı) in Turkey, across the border from Armenia.
Read More