History, development and application of anti-seismic techniques: the post-earthquake reconstruction of the “Pio Monte della Misericordia” in Ischia.

In the South of Italy, awareness of seismic hazard strictly affected the development of masonry techniques. Several innovations and construction systems have been developed over the ages in order to withstand the effects of earthquakes. The paper is mainly devoted to report on the distinctive construction system implemented for the reconstruction of the historical complex Pio Monte della Misericordia in Casamicciola. The designer, engineer Giuseppe Florio, followed the regulations specifically set for majestic works in terms of building location, height, elevation irregularities as well as materials, but not for the construction details. Actually his original system is oriented to obtain the same performance of the traditional casa baraccata, reinforced using wood, without interrupting masonry continuity and basing on metal standard profiles. In conclusion, the presented case is a unique snapshot illustrating a rare path within the gradual replacement of the traditional unreinforced masonry with the new construction systems and materials