Seismic Damage to Churches: Observations from the L’Aquila, Italy, Earthquake and Considerations on a Case-Study

Abstract:

The earthquake that hit the city of L’Aquila, in central Italy, on the 6th of April 2009 has severely damaged most of the heritage buildings of the area. Soon after the event, a first survey of damage to ancient churches and palaces has been carried out according to a predefined classification procedure. Subsequently, a more detailed damage analysis was started in order to facilitate decision on future interventions. For one of these churches, S. Biagio Amiterno, damage consisted in the collapse of the upper part of the façade, in the localized collapse of the main vault, and in an extended crack pattern in vaults, columns, and walls. This damage pattern is interpreted here as case study. In more general terms, the exam of specific case studies gives the possibility of shedding light on various issues related to the seismic behavior of the building typologies concerned.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volumes 133-134)
• Pages: 641-646
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.133-134.641
• Online since: October 2010
• Authors: Luigia Binda, Claudio Chesi, Maria Adelaide Parisi
• Keywords: Case Study, Heritage Buildings, Historical Masonry, Seismic Behavior, Seismic Damage

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