ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a contribute for the critical comparison between standard values and field analysis data, achieved from tests performed within a widespread research activity on the Abruzzo architectural heritage, since the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake. The seismic Italian code prescribes that the masonry mechanical characterisation must be defined on the basis of available data analysis, visual investigation and in-situ experimental tests. The seismic Italian Technical Codes for Construction requires the assessment of the safety levels before/after any intervention on existing constructions, taking into account the seismic improvement or the local strengthening of the building. The selection of the appropriate methodology for the seismic vulnerability evaluation is dictated by the building type. Specific diagnostic procedures, consisting in the application of standardised testing sets, have been developed, with the purpose of optimising the number of measures to reach the knowledge levels required by the Italian code.
