MODEL CALIBRATION IN COMPLEX HISTORICAL MASONRY STRUCTURES: THE CASE OF MILAN CATHEDRAL

The development of reliable finite element models for analysing large-scale historical constructions poses significant challenges, including limited information on hidden structural geometry, spatial variation in material properties, and boundary conditions. This study explores practical aspects of finite element model development and calibration based on dynamic measurements on a complex built heritage. The work is illustrated through an applicative study in Milan Cathedral, where a previously accurate finite element model developed by the authors is calibrated against the data of a later installed vibration monitoring system. The essence of this process is the tuning of parameters such as material elastic properties and boundary conditions, in order to minimize the discrepancies between the numerical and experimental dynamic characteristics of the structure. The research highlights the possibility of achieving an accurate finite element model calibration with respect to experimental vibration measurements. In the case of historical construction is noted a significant contribution of the geometry. The calibrated model provides a valuable tool for preservation engineers in the assessment and maintenance of cultural heritage