International Centre for Numerical Methods in Engineering (CIMNE)
Abstract
Built vernacular heritage embraces buildings that are not designed by specialists, but are part of a process that involves many people over many generations and relies on empirical knowledge. Its value as a key-element for cultural identity is unquestionable. However, precisely due to its empirical and traditional nature, it is often seen as an obsolete and unsafe way of construction, which leads to its progressive abandonment. This lack of proper construction details and poor maintenance increases the seismic vulnerability of the vernacular heritage. There is an evident need for simplified easy-to-use seismic vulnerability assessment methods for vernacular architecture, given the generalized lack of resources that can be normally assigned to its study and preservation. Most of the times, visual inspection will be the only tool available to carry out the assessment.Postprint (published version
