comparison between the present condition of structure and that of similar structures

combination of stylistic restoration with the rules of philological restoration,

critical philological method based on the distinction between layers of intervention to present the historical structuring of buildings in their material authenticity.

restoration was essentially based on the biological vision of the monument: it should be left to become a ruin or to die by itself when no further stabilization was possible.

re-establishment, that is, full recovery of the original integrity, as a sort of ‘pristine’ condition, even if it did not ever exist.

preserve the building in the state as found (‘to repair and to conserve everything – even though it were the smallest fragment’),

Consolidation: re-establishment of bearing capacity through technical resources

re-composition: assembly of the dislocated parts by anastylosis, provided that the new additions are noticeable;

Renovation: transformation of existing elements, and construction of new ones considered as essential.

reconstruction was performed according to the philological approach, but most of the times freely interpreted and disregarding the principles of minimum intervention and distinguishability of modern works.

Traditional construction of the vault and domical roofs were all guided by the geometry and proportions.

compressive strength of masonry is usually much lower than that of stone.

low tensile strength of masonry, concentric cracks appear transforming the dome in a system of arches embedded into the thickness.

if different parts experience different stress/
deformation levels, cracks may appear leading to separation among parts.

When compressive stresses approach about half of the compressive strength, compression cracks tend to appear, as observed in tests.

High compression stresses, leading to splitting and consequent loss of material.

transverse tensile stresses, the wall may experience inner cracking and separate

disintegration of the element or to detachment,

Vertical settlement at one point ends on causing separation of unit masonry on that particular corner.

If this failure is in the middle part of the wall it can experience a bending failure.

Severe differential settlements or settlements with a large extension may result in the development of cracks that separate large parts

Climate change speeded up at an unexpected rate in the last decades and is receiving much attention.

The text explores the modern understanding of conservation and heritage structures, tracing the historical evolution of conservation practices, construction materials, and structural decisions. It discusses damage and collapse mechanisms in masonry construction, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural values, authenticity, and diversity. Various principles and guidelines for heritage conservation are outlined, focusing on the significance of heritage structures in fostering community, identity, and belonging. The text also delves into the evolution of masonry vaulted structures, highlighting advancements in structural design and analysis techniques. Overall, it emphasizes the multifaceted and dynamic process of conserving heritage structures while ensuring their continued relevance and significance.

Heritage structure with complex history requires Anamnesis, diagnosis, therapy and controls

Respect of original materials,morphology and structural arrangement

Respect for distinguishing qualities of structure and environment deriving from original form

Respect for original concept, materials and construction techniques