Observations of out-of-plane rocking in the oratory of san giuseppe dei minimi during the 2009 L'Aquila earthquake

Contrary to other structural types, unreinforced masonry buildings display local collapses during strong earthquakes, especially in the case of large-hall constructions. This is also what has happened in the Oratory of San Giuseppe dei Minimi, located in the historical centre of L'Aquila (central Italy) and affected by the 2009 earthquake. The church suffered the out-of-plane response of its façade and parapet belfry. These mechanisms are studied recurring to non-linear dynamic models, calibrated with experimental data. The outcome of such analyses is in reasonable agreement with observed damages. Hence, it is possible to recommend this approach for the seismic assessment of similar buildings.