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Ancient structures have been designed according to semi-empirical rules based on few simplified mechanical principles; nevertheless, their structural performance is rather good in the majority of cases. In this article, the ancient rules for masonry bridges and arches, derived from some historical manuals, are analyzed on the basis of modern mechanics. Some issues on the material mechanical characteristics and on the structural response of masonry arches allow a better understanding of the structural performance and response of old arch structures.

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