Integrating Historical Sources and Infrared Thermography for Detection of Seismic Damage in Architectural Heritage

Fabrizio Terenzio Gizzi, Edoardo Geraldi, Maria Rosaria Potenza, Sileo Maria

Abstract

This article aims to illustrate a methodological approach for identifying damage scars and reconstruction interventions on monuments affected by past earthquakes. The approach draws on the combined and cross-referenced use of historical-technical sources alongside infrared thermographic surveys, allowing to piece together the chronology and extent of structural interventions over time. To try out and validate the methodology, we focus on two case studies involving churches located in two towns in the Basilicata region (Southern Italy). These sites were struck by two major seismic events in the 20th century: the 23 July 1930 Irpinia earthquake (Mw 6.7) and the 23 November 1980 Irpinia-Basilicata earthquake (Mw 6.8). By examining these examples, we aim to lay out the potential of the method to bring out hidden traces of damage and reveal insights into the repair strategies adopted in response to seismic events.

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IMEKO-Metroarchaeo-2025-131.pdf

DOI

10.21014/tc26-2025.131

IMEKO TC

TC26 - Metrology for Cultural Heritage

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