Assessment of the seismic performance of structures is still a challenge. Historic masonry structures exhibit peculiar properties (low tensile strength and lack of box behavior) that make the task of the analyst even more difficult. It seems that traditional design and assessment methods, similar to the ones currently used for reinforced concrete structures, are not applicable. This article provides a review of the seismic analysis of masonry structures without box behavior. Different methods of structural analysis are discussed and a comparison is made between pushover methods and non-linear dynamic analysis with time integration. Three cases studies (San Torcato church, Qutb Minar and “Gaioleiro” buildings) were used and the results show that traditional, adaptive or modal pushover analyses are not totally in agreement with non-linear dynamic analysis or experimental observations.

This paper presents a numerical study for the seismic assessment of a Portuguese building masonry typology - “Gaioleiro”. Numerical analysis was performed using a finite element model calibrated with experimental results obtained in 1:3 reduced scale tests carried out in the LNEC 3D shaking table. Non-linear dynamic analysis with time integration and pushover analysis are carried out. Using nonlinear dynamic analysis it was verified that the buildings of “gaioleiro” type with appropriate floor-wall connections are in the limit of their loading capacity. The pushover analyses performed in this study were incapable of simulating correctly the damage of the structure under seismic action

The growing concern about the protection of built heritage and the sustainability of urban areas has driven the reoccupation of existing masonry buildings, which, in the great majority of the cases, were not designed or constructed to withstand significant seismic forces. This fact, associated with territorial occupation often concentrated in areas with high seismic hazard, makes it essential to look at these buildings from the point of view of the assessment of their seismic vulnerability and retrofitting needs. However, to be effective and efficient, such an assessment must be founded on a solid knowledge of the existing methods and tools, as well as on the criteria that should underlie the selection of the most appropriate to use in each context and situation. Aimed at contributing to systematise that knowledge, this paper presents a comprehensive review of the most relevant vulnerability assessment methods applicable at different scales, as well as the most significant traditional and innovative seismic retrofitting solutions for existing masonry buildings.