La conservazione nei siti archeologici colpiti dal sisma del 2009 in Abruzzo

The observation of seismic damage to the archaeological sites after the 2009 earthquake in Abruzzo was conducted by the Regional Directorate for Cultural Heritage and CNR-ITC of L'Aquila, in order to experiment a specific form for surveying the seismic damage and vulnerability to archaeological heritage. During the surveys has been possible to observe not only the damage caused by the earthquake, but also the conservation status of the sites. A particularly interesting aspect was the opportunity to verify the effects of the restoration works previously carried out: often the materials used have proved to be incompatible, both from the mechanical point of view, both from the physic-chemical point of view. The use of inadequate materials accentuates the degradation of ancient materials (erosion and salt crystallization) and causes an increased concentration of seismic damage in the contiguity of the restored area. These reintegrations, presenting a greater rigidity, is are almost entirely detached from old parts, damaging them. After four years by the earthquake have been carried out further surveys on a few sites that had particular critical situations, to check the evolution of decay. Among these, the amphitheater of Amiternum shows a 'sample case' of inappropriate interventions on which it is useful to consider in view of future restoration.