Structural reliability analysis of Maltese historic buildings under the effect of seismic loading

Abstract

The geographic location and the geomorphological scenario of the Maltese islands put them in a low-to-moderate seismic hazard zone. Nonetheless, when considering the density of the building stock combined with the local methods of masonry construction, the estimated seismic risk is rather high. /this risk is further enhanced when considering masonry heritage buildings, particularly due to their inherent lack of seismic engineering design and their age.