A Methodological Approach to Evaluate Seismic Vulnerability of Masonry Cathedrals

The seismic analysis of historical and monumental masonry buildings, especially churches and cathedrals, is challenging and expensive. These difficulties are mainly related to complex geometry and the mechanical modelling of historic masonry structures. This paper aims to show the methodological approach to evaluate the seismic vulnerability of Masonry Cathedrals by modelling seismic analysis. The numerical finite element model, modelled with solid elements, was optimised based on identifying the primary dynamic properties performed in ambient and seismic excitations recorded by a continuous dynamic monitoring system in operation since 2015. We carried out linear dynamic analyses for the optimised model of the entire structure. We also carried out non-linear dynamic analyses for the vaults, where damage concentrations were detected after various seismic events. The linear dynamic analysis of the optimised entire structural model aimed to estimate the time histories of acceleration at the connection areas between the vaults to the vertical structures. The numerical analysis results were consistent with the damage maps identified for the actual structure. Furthermore, the numerical model and the analysis procedure showed an excellent ability to reproduce the accurate structural response.