Ajatelt

Ajatelt is a traditional Turkish and Middle Eastern architectural feature commonly found in courtyard houses, palaces, and public buildings. The term originates from the Turkish words *aja* (meaning "courtyard") and *telt* (meaning "roof" or "ceiling"), referring to its primary function as an overhead structure within a courtyard.

Ajatelt typically consists of a wooden or stone framework supporting a lattice of beams and crossbars, often adorned with intricate carvings or geometric patterns. These structures serve both practical and aesthetic purposes, providing shade, ventilation, and a sense of enclosure to the courtyard below. In hot climates, ajatelt help regulate indoor temperatures by allowing airflow while blocking direct sunlight.

Historically, ajatelt were prevalent in Ottoman-era buildings, including residences like the *çiftehan* (double-courtyard houses) and grand structures such as the Topkapı Palace in Istanbul. They were also used in Islamic architecture across regions like Persia, the Arabian Peninsula, and North Africa, where similar roofed courtyards appear under different names, such as *shabestan* in Iran or *riwaq* in the Levant.

Modern applications of ajatelt can be seen in contemporary Middle Eastern and Mediterranean architecture, where they are sometimes incorporated into new constructions as a nod to traditional design. The craftsmanship involved in creating ajatelt often reflects regional artistic styles, with variations in woodwork, paint, and decorative motifs. While less common today, they remain a symbol of cultural heritage and adaptive design in warm climates.