Integrated procedures for the seismic response assessment of existing masonry constructions

The conservation of existing buildings is a current topic within the scientific community because they very often have historical value to be preserved, making them also very attractive for tourism purposes. To this end, currently much effort is now being put into the development of multidisciplinary procedures for structural assessment based on historical-critical analysis, accurate surveys of geometries and materials, dynamic identifications and numerical analyses using models appropriately calibrated with experimental data. In this context, the paper focuses on a methodology integrating historical-critical analysis, rapid visual inspections, non-destructive on site tests, preliminary numerical modeling and structural monitoring techniques. The latter are useful to correctly simulate the structural static and seismic response of existing buildings. Case studies belonging to the historical center of Matera and Venosa, located in Southern Italy, are analyzed. The research activity is conducted as part of the PON GENESIS Project, aimed at seismic risk management for the tourist enhancement of historic centers in Southern Italy.