Seismic Safety and Conservation-Compatible Interventions for the Monumental Complex of Santa Caterina a Formiello in Naples

This paper investigates the critical challenge of seismic safety and structural reinforcement for the monumental complex of Santa Caterina a Formiello in Naples. Historic masonry structures, such as this architectural landmark, present inherent vulnerabilities to seismic action, which are frequently compounded by the limitations of standard numerical models used in regulatory frameworks that fail to account for material heterogeneity and complex collapse mechanisms. To address this gap, the research proposes a holistic, conservation-compatible design methodology. This approach moves beyond simplified analysis by integrating an understanding of the structure’s historical structural reasoning with the application of rigorous analytical tools, including Graphical Methods and advanced numerical modeling. This synergistic methodology aims to accurately identify actual failure modes under seismic loading. The study results in a strategy for structural intervention that is both highly effective in reducing seismic vulnerability and minimally invasive, thus providing a balanced, replicable framework for the preservation of vulnerable cultural heritage buildings.