Improving Resilience in Architectural Heritage? The Reconstruction of the Vaulting Systems After the 1805 Earthquake in Molise (Italy)

Abstract

Abstract. The 1805 earthquake damaged a large area of the Southern Italy, destroying most of the architectural heritage in the “Contado of Molise”, a poor region characterized by numerous medieval towns. In the aftermath of the catastrophe, the reconstruction and in fewer cases the restoration of important buildings, mainly the ecclesiastical ones, took place without a well-defined rebuilding plan. If, from a formal point of view, interesting design levels were not reached, the same cannot be stated for the construction solutions adopted, especially regarding vaulted systems. Actually, they were conceived either with wood, concrete with aggregates or full/hollow clay bricks. This variety of constructive raw elements is a direct manifestation of the richness of the vernacular constructive tradition. Moreover, the intrinsic lightness of such materials suggests as well the need at the time of new lightweight structures capable of standing on pre-existing weakened masonries. This approach was probably taken in order to reduce vulnerability and improve structural resilience to earthquakes. In light of these considerations, the paper focuses on the different construction techniques used to rebuild the vaulting systems after the 1805 earthquake in Molise, discussing their potentialities and weaknesses as well as their capacity to improve resilience in the architectural heritage.

Architecture research in urban heritage resilience: a systematic literature review

“…These areas often face the risk of degradation, loss, and destruction due to factors such as urbanization, rapid urban development, natural disasters, and social disruptions. The concept of urban heritage resilience recognizes the importance of preserving and protecting these areas while also ensuring their capacity to withstand and recover from various challenges [14]- [16]. The concept of urban heritage resilience recognizes the importance of preserving and protecting urban areas with significant historical and cultural value, while also ensuring their capacity to withstand and recover from various challenges [17] This paper examines the significance of architecture in urban heritage resilience.…”

“…The study demonstrates a scarcity of academic attention on the relationship between cultural heritage and its potential role in promoting resilience [2], [6], [7], [14], [16], [22], [24], [33]. Existing literature predominantly emphasizes the engineering resilience approach, which concentrates on preserving built structures and preventing damage caused by external hazards or rapid urban development.…”