Aalya RekhiM.A.
Exploring the Science of Ancient Mortars
Uncovering the technological networks of the Central Mediterranean through archaeometric analysis and material heritage research.
Researcher. Architect. Conservator.
Aalya's academic path bridges architecture, conservation, and material science. After five years with INTACH and multiple heritage research collaborations, her practice evolved from restoring monuments to decoding the materials that built them.
Her interdisciplinary approach combines field documentation, archaeometric methods, and conservation principles to understand ancient technological transfers.
Education
PhD (in progress)
University of Tübingen
M.A. Applied Sciences to Cultural Heritage
University of Padova (110 cum laude)
B.Arch
Amity University, Noida
Contact Information
The Tübingen Mortar Project
Technology Transfer in the Central Mediterranean
Funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG), this study investigates production, processing, and exchange of ancient lime mortars and plasters in three Punic-Roman sites—Carthage, Pantelleria, and Solunto. Through archaeometric analysis, the project reveals shared traditions and regional adaptations in ancient craftsmanship.
Analytical Methods
Polarization Microscopy
Optical analysis of mineral composition and texture in ancient mortars
X-Ray Diffraction (XRPD)
Crystalline phase identification and quantitative analysis
X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF)
Elemental composition analysis of mortar samples
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM-EDS)
High-resolution imaging and elemental mapping
Raman & Infrared Spectroscopy
Molecular structure identification and characterization
Selected Works
Tübingen Mortar Project
PhD Research | 2024–Present
Study of ancient lime mortars and plasters from Carthage, Pantelleria, and Solunto.
Indian Lost and Found (ILF)
Research Lead | 2023
Directed research on 40+ heritage sites, managing a seven-member team.
Read Article: Women in Armour→INTACH
Architect | 2018–2022
Conservation projects including National Museum (New Delhi), Man Mahal (Varanasi), and Koh Keh (Cambodia).
ICOMOS Exhibition
Architect & Exhibition Assistant | 2017
Exhibition design and heritage display coordination for the 19th ICOMOS General Assembly.
Visual Archive
A collection of field documentation, laboratory analysis, and research presentations from ongoing archaeological investigations.
Field documentation, Carthage, 2024
SEM image of lime binder matrix, Carthage, 2024
Mortar analysis, Pantelleria, 2024
Laboratory analysis in progress, 2024
Polarized light microscopy, Solunto sample
Research presentation, ICOMOS Assembly, 2017
Publications & Contributions
Publications
Women in Armour
2023ILF Blog
Research article exploring the role of women in heritage conservation and archaeological research.
Urban Evolution of Temple-Towns in Tamil Nadu
2022Translation & Editorial Contribution
Comprehensive study of architectural development in South Indian temple complexes.
Understanding Forts of India
2021Design & Research Publication
Detailed analysis of Indian fort architecture and defensive construction techniques.
Workshops & Training
INTACH: Conservation Procedures
AdvancedIndian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage
Advanced training in heritage conservation methodologies and best practices.
Recovering the Universal Heritage
InternationalSapienza University of Rome
International workshop on global heritage preservation strategies.
Climate Change Framework (Grade A)
CertificationUNFCCC
Certification in climate change impacts on cultural heritage sites.
Let's Collaborate
For academic collaborations, research partnerships, or conservation consultations—feel free to connect.