Proposal of a taxonomy for regional seismic risk assessment of Italian masonry buildings

Regional characterization and classification of masonry buildings is a crucial step to effectively assess their seismic vulnerability, accounting for local materials and construction practice. This paper presents a comprehensive data analysis of Italian masonry structures across different regions to develop a taxonomy that is directly based on the data extracted from official census databases and technical inventories. The study aims at tracing the evolution of construction techniques and materials over time, offering a detailed overview of how building practices have changed across different historical periods. A key component of this study is the disaggregation of masonry building stock according to the age of construction and specific structural characteristics, such as wall typology, floor system, and masonry type. Those characteristics are statistically analyzed to identify patterns and recurring structural configurations within each construction period. The resulting taxonomy highlights both regional and chronological differences, providing valuable insights into the diversity of the existing built heritage. The outcomes of this study are instrumental for supporting large-scale vulnerability assessments, accounting for region-specific features of the masonry built heritage. By offering a systematic classification framework, this work contributes to the development of data-based methodologies for multi-hazard risk assessment and protection of existing masonry buildings in Italy.