Comparison between Two Traditional Earthquake-Proof Solutions: Borbone and Lefkada Timber-Frame Systems

Abstract

On the basis of a critical analysis of damage produced by earthquakes, over time, traditional construction techniques have developed effective solutions for earthquake-resistant buildings. Meaningful examples of this can be found within the vernacular tradition of the Mediterranean area, which is characterized by frequently recurring seismic events. Specifically, in southern Italy and in the Greek Ionian Islands, two interesting construction types still survive and merit special attention in relation to the structural solutions adopted, which are consistent with modern views of earthquake-resistant design. In both cases, the mixed use of timber and masonry is present, although with different modalities and purposes; indeed, in the Italian case, timber elements are present over the building’s entire height as an additional bracing system, whereas in the Greek one, timber is used at the second and third stories to reduce the structural mass. In this work, two selected case studies are presented, through which the distinctive construction details of each tradition are commented on.