Which mechanism prevented structural collapse of Hagia Sophia's dome immediately after its original construction?

💡 Explanation

When the Hagia Sophia was built, the dome's lateral thrust was initially too great, causing cracks; iron tie rods were added to resist hoop stress because the tensile strength of the mortar was insufficient. Therefore iron rods prevented collapse, rather than the foundations, concrete, or squinches alone which serve different structural functions.

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