Seismic vulnerability assessment of two territorial case studies of Italian ancient churches: comparison between simplified and refined numerical models

The current study aims at assessing the seismic vulnerability of two sets of ancient masonry churches, located in two different areas of Italy, struck by earthquakes in 2016 and 2017. At first, three simplified methods for large-scale evaluations, such as A-DC model (Italian Civil Protection Department), guidelines method released by the Ministry of Cultural Assets and Activities (LV1) and the method proposed by the University of Basilicata (LV0 method), were applied and compared. Subsequently, two refined analyses were conducted by applying case-specific numerical models based on macro-element (LV2) and nonlinear modelling approach (LV3). The results comparison highlights the ease and versatility of the simplified territorial methods, limiting their use to a preliminary fast screening. Finally, the refined numerical models, even though being time-consuming, continue to represent the best analysis method for a correct interventions design.