Philosophical Approaches for Conservation and Upgrade of the Cultural Heritage

The paper deals with the design procedures for the refurbishment, seismic upgrade, and reuse of historical buildings defined ordinary since they have an intermediate relevance within the cultural heritage of a country. The procedures include the basic knowledge, the assessment methods, the design works, and the use of innovative composite materials aimed at defining appropriate cost-effective technologies and methods for the structural and seismic retrofitting. The research is carried out with reference to two emblematic study cases concerning (i) the reuse of the old tuna factory Florio in the island of Favignana and (ii) the reuse of the complex of San Benedetto Novello in Perugia as a center for artistic and cultural activities. The old tuna factory of Favignana was restored and repaired in 2010. Nowadays it is used as a museum. In this paper, the design criteria adopted for the repair and upgrade of tuff vaults with a cement-based composite material are described. The complex of San Benedetto includes architectural elements attributed to Galeazzo Alessi and is nowadays partially occupied by offices. The study provides for the evaluation of the structure safety considering both the global and local level with reference to the performance levels expected at the different limit states. The works for seismic improvement have been designed respecting the peculiarities of the ecclesiastical complex and allowing the performances required by the new functions. Special focus is given to the use of innovative restoring and strengthening technologies allowing for works characterized by cost effectiveness and contained invasiveness.