Basilica-type buildings: seismic vulnerability and application of base isolation

In this paper the behaviour of masonry church buildings under seismic actions is examined and discussed. For this purpose, ten basilica churches are analyzed using a “two steps” procedure. In the first step, each building is analyzed in the linear range with 3D finite element models, in order to determine static and dynamic properties, and to evaluate the elastic strength demands. Afterwards, the 3D complex is sub-structured in its constituting macro-elements, and each macro-element is analyzed in the non-linear range up to collapse, in order to determine its horizontal capacity. The results from the first step (strength demand) and second step (strength capacity) are then compared with the purpose of assessing the level of safety/vulnerability of each macro-element and of the global structure.