Lessons from the 2020 earthquakes in Croatia to improve the seismic performance of cultural heritage structures

Abstract

Following a brief review of relevant characteristics and impacts of the 2020 earthquakes in Croatia, the damage sustained by two cultural heritage buildings is described to illustrate the impacts on this type of structures. Several strategies are then presented for implementing an adequate rehabilitation of this type of structures. Finally, a few strategic recommendations are discussed that contribute for the development of a more efficient seismic risk management strategy that safeguards the integrity and authenticity of cultural heritage ahead of future earthquakes. The contents of this article are based on the discussions held during the meetings of the Expert and Advisory Committee for the Structural Renovation of the Architectural Heritage in the Earthquake Stricken Areas of the Republic of Croatia and on information gathered during a reconnaissance visit to the areas affected by the earthquakes, in July 2021.