Title: How structural engineering can help archaeology?

Authors: Mauro Sassu

Addresses: Department of Civil, Environmental Engineering and Architecture, University of Cagliari, Via Marengo 2, 09123 Cagliari, Italy

Abstract: In the present paper the 'Three R' strategy for archaeological consolidation is described, referring to some well-known historical examples and then to some significant cases on UNESCO sites. The problem of conserving the constructive information in the ancient structures along centuries is here summarised, together with examples of recurrent structural problems that affect those constructions. Three case studies of sites are explained: two located in Arabic Peninsula (Dhofar district, Sumhuram - Al Balid), and one in Jordan (Petra district - Shawbak). The replacement of collapsing walls (with or without mortar joints) is illustrated, following the strategy to assess a respectful, recognisable and reversible consolidation technique. Moreover, aspects of management of works and of modelling from structural point of view are discussed.

Keywords: archaeological consolidation; three R strategy; UNESCO sites; masonry structures.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMRI.2023.129570

International Journal of Masonry Research and Innovation, 2023 Vol.8 No.2/3, pp.120 - 133

Received: 17 Mar 2021
Accepted: 27 Sep 2021
Published online: 14 Mar 2023 *

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