Seismic Vulnerability Assessment of Masonry Churches in Bondeno: A Comparative Analysis of Damage Indices

This paper investigates the seismic assessment of twenty-three masonry churches located in Bondeno (district of Ferrara, Italy), following the devastating earthquake in May 2012, which resulted in significant casualties and widespread damage to both industrial and historic structures. Many of these historical buildings, including churches, abbeys, palaces, and bell towers, are vital components of the region’s cultural heritage and urgently needed consolidation to reduce their seismic vulnerability and prevent further losses. The study compares three damage indices derived from distinct approaches to assess the seismic vulnerability of the churches. The first approach uses a simplified mechanical model as outlined in the Italian Guidelines for Cultural Heritage (IGCH). The second method employs the AeDES form, which is utilized for damage estimation in the aftermath of earthquakes. The third approach involves a kinematic analysis of various typical macro-elements identified within the church structures. Data for these assessments were collected using the CARTIS Church form, developed by the PLINIVS research centre in collaboration with the Italian Civil Protection Department, to characterize the typological and structural aspects of these ecclesiastical buildings. A comparative analysis of the three indices was conducted, demonstrating the effectiveness of the simplified method in predicting damage to the churches. However, the study notes that further validation is needed to establish the general reliability of this approach.