Safeguarding heritage after the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes: seismic assessment and proposed compatible strengthening of a historic masonry building

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study investigates the seismic behavior and strengthening strategy of a historical masonry building located in the Yeşilyurt – Gündüzbey region of Malatya, which was severely damaged during the 6 February 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes. Field observations, geotechnical data, and material properties were integrated with a three-dimensional architectural model created in Autodesk Revit based on detailed building survey data. This model was transferred to ETABS to develop finite element models for seismic performance assessment. Nonlinear time-history analyses using recorded earthquake motions were conducted to evaluate the structural behavior before and after strengthening. The results revealed insufficient lateral load-bearing capacity and high deformation demands in the existing condition, consistent with damage mechanisms observed in the field. To enhance seismic performance while preserving architectural integrity, a heritage-compatible strengthening technique consisting of a timber frame and bond beam system was proposed. Comparative analyses showed significant reductions in demand-to-capacity ratios, lateral displacements, and interstory drifts. The findings demonstrate that the proposed approach improves structural stiffness and seismic performance without compromising the historical character of the building, providing a practical reference for heritage-compatible strengthening of masonry structures in seismic regions.