Experimental and numerical modal identification of the Fossanova Gothic Cathedral

This paper focuses on the dynamic behaviour of the Fossanova cathedral (Latina, ITALY), which represents a magnificent example of pre-Gothic style church, whose structural typology is largely present in the Mediterranean area, especially in many Countries characterised by a High-Medium seismic hazard. In particular, within the European research project PROHITECH, aiming at investigating the seismic vulnerability of such a structural typology, experimental and numerical analyses have been carried out. Firstly, detailed investigations have been devoted to the identification of the geometry of the main constructional parts as well as of the mechanical features of the constituting materials of the cathedral. Then, both Ambient Vibration Tests (AVT) and Numerical Modal Identification analyses by Finite Element Method (FEM) have been applied, allowing the detection of the main dynamic features. Finally, a refined FEM model reproducing the dynamic behaviour of the cathedral by using scaled physical quantities according to the Buckingham theorem has been developed. In fact, the present study has to be intended as a preliminary activity devoted to se up a shaking table test on a reduced scale physical model of Fossanova cathedral, which will be shortly carried out at the IZIIS laboratory (Skopje, Macedonia).