An integrated approach for threat assessment and damage identification on built heritage in climate-sensitive territories: the Albenga case study (San Clemente church)

Climate change represents an increasing threat to cultural heritage all around the world. In particular, the consequences of extreme weather events like tornados, heavy rain, and flooding can significantly damage built heritage and archeological sites. To face such issues, an integrated approach for threat assessment and damage identification is of primary importance for managing sites threatened by extreme weather events and climate change. This paper presents a holistic approach for risk assessment and management, specifically focusing on flooding, addressing San Clemente church in Albenga (Northern Italy). Located in the Centa riverbed, and dating back to the fifth century, San Clemente church has a complex historical stratification that reflects the changes that occurred in the area. The integrated approach included the analysis of historical, geometrical-dimensional, and meteorological data to identify the main threats associated with the site through a modified version of the ABC method. In fact, together with the standard categories, we added the category 'Sensitivity to change' in order to understand the possibility for the archeological site to change without adverse impacts on its heritage significance. Starting with identified risks, it was possible to define a proper survey strategy to evaluate damages caused by flooding. Through the comparison of pre- and post-flooding condition of the church, it was possible to analyze the damages to the archeological site.