Seismic behaviour of the walls of the Parthenon: A numerical study

A numerical study of the behaviour of the walls of the Cella of Parthenon subjected to seismic loading is presented. Commonly used numerical codes for masonry structures based on continuum mechanics are unable to handle the behaviour of discontinuous walls of ancient monuments, in the same way as continuum models cannot capture the behaviour of drum-columns. In this analysis, the discrete element method was used, which has been proven, in previous research, capable to accurately predict the response of discontinuous structural systems. The marble structural stones of the walls were modeled as rigid blocks with fric- tional joints between them. Two types of models were used in the analyses: (i) a sub-assembly consisting of only a section of the wall of limited length, either as it is in-situ (partially col- lapsed) or with its full height (restored) and (ii) considering the whole structure partially re- stored. In one of the models of type (i), the existing damage of the stones was also implemented. Analyses were performed with and without considering the metallic elements (clamps and dowels) that connect adjacent stonesPart of the research presented in this paper was funded by the Committee for the Preserva- tion of the Acropolis Monuments (YSMA), which also provided the restoration scenario that was used for the full-structure model of Figure 3. Special thanks are due to A. Vrouva, civil engineer with YSMA and N. Toganidis, architect with YSMA, for their help with the con- struction details of the monumenPostprint (published version

Säulen griechischer Tempel unter Erdbebenbeanspruchung

olumns of Greek Temples under seismic loading:Columns of ancient Greek Temples consist of accurately dressed individual blocks in total absence on binding mortars. The seismic response of such multi-drum structures is completely different than the corresponding one of modern continuous structures. Their stability is governed by independent sliding and rocking of drums, which creates an external energy absorption mechanism. This paper presents numerical studies on the dynamic behaviour of ancient columns which exhibits a highly non-linear response. Alternative modeling methods are used and calibrated to experimental results. It is concluded that ancient columns may be less vulnerable to seismic events compared to modern structures. The perfection of the form unified esthetical, architectural and structural requirements