Invited Lecture – The seismic response of the north wall of the Parthenon cella: Parametric numerical investigation of structural details and restoration scenarios

The north wall of the Parthenon is an isodomic masonry structure composed of Pentelic marble blocks, placed together with precise craftmanship and without mortar. The blocks are interconnected through carefully designed metal connectors arranged both horizontally and vertically. The wall was numerically modeled using the Discrete Element Method with rigid blocks and subjected to selected seismic excitations. A parametric investigation was to assess the effect of structural details and conditions and subsequently alternative restoration scenarios, with the objective of minimizing the introduction of new material into the monument. The lecture will examine how specific structural features influence the seismic behavior of the wall, including the inward inclination of the cella wall, the presence and function of the connecting elements, and the existing damages to the ancient blocks. Conclusions will also be drawn from the comparative evaluation of the examined restoration schemes.