The article presents a simplified methodology for assessing seismic risk specifically tailored for immovable cultural heritage assets. The methodology aims to allow a quick evaluation of seismic risk for a wide range of cultural properties with predominantly masonry construction, using limited human and financial resources in a short timeframe.
The proposed risk analysis framework falls into the category of qualitative methods and is based on a series of structured questionnaires that address the main components of a risk analysis: the likelihood of the hazard, the consequences of the hazard, the vulnerability of the asset to the hazard, the loss of value of the asset and the capacity to recover from the event. In order to illustrate its application, the article presents a case study in which the risk analysis for a church in Italy that was damaged in 2009 by the L’Aquila earthquake is performed.
The methodology’s expeditious and simplified nature is based on conservative assumptions for uniform application at a territorial scale. However, it does not directly recommend specific interventions for mitigating seismic risk. The methodology emphasises the importance of regularly updating seismic risk assessments without significant resources, enabling monitoring of risk evolution over time.
The article underscores the necessity for institutions involved in Cultural Heritage preservation to establish risk assessments and intervention planning to control and minimise losses in the event of a seismic event. Overall, the methodology offers a valuable tool for efficiently evaluating seismic risk in immovable cultural heritage assets, focusing on masonry construction, to support effective risk management practices.
