Abstract

Historical masonry structures are characterised by a high level of seismic vulnerability, as demonstrated by recent and past seismic events. Monumental buildings, in particular,represent a very challenging topic. Their morphological evolution, characterised by transformations, aggregations and modifications developed over the centuries, have given rise to very complex structures that should be considered as structural aggregates rather than single buildings. The present paper briefly summarises the assessment of the structural performance of the monumental complex of the Certosa di Calci (Italy), by applying an in-depth multi-level and multi-disciplinary approach. The morphological evolution of the aggregate was studied by means of critical historical analysis enabling the identification of the structural units composing it. The complex was, besides, subjected to in-situ survey campaigns allowing an adequate knowledge level. Reliable FEM models were elaborated, and non-linear static pushover analyses were performed. The single structural units were initially studied as isolated buildings and then combined evaluating the influence of the in-aggregate behaviour on the overall structural response. Pushover analyses were performed for each evolution configuration, allowing results in terms of capacity curves, load factors and damage distribution. The methodology presented, although used for a specific case study, can be extended to other constructions characterised by similar complexity and features.