LAUSR

Existing buildings are subjected to processes of degradation with time, which leads to a condition in which they became unable to fulfil the purpose for which they were built. Sometimes, there is also the need to improve the conditions delivered by existing buildings or to adapt them to new functions. Furthermore, in the most developed societies, as they progress, the feeling grows that it is necessary to maintain the existing architectural heritage. As a kind of counterpoint to the changes caused by rapid technological evolution, it is really important to keep the existing built environment and passing it on to future generations. Rehabilitation of Ancient buildings is a way of sustainable development and also an act of culture. The most crucial aspect of the rehabilitation of existing buildings is their structural rehabilitation, i.e., their structural safety .However, assessment of the structural safety of existing buildings is, In general, a tough task because the methodologies used differ from those adopted in the design of new structures. Furthermore, the eventual strengthening of existing buildings can conflict with their cultural value. Therefore, the type of intervention on an ancient building will depend on its cultural value, ranging from simple maintenance, where the goal is not to change the cultural value of the building, to complex rehabilitation, when it is intended to improve the performance of the building.