In-situ experimental campaign on the covering structures of “Villa dei Misteri” in Pompeii

Abstract

The archaeological site of Pompeii is located near modern Naples in the Italian region of Campania. As known, the ancient Roman city was mostly destroyed and buried under 4–6 m of ash and pumice in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, and it remained covered until the beginnings of archaeological excavations during the second half of the XVIII century. Today, it is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world. With the aim preserving a unique archaeological heritage, the Pompeii Archaeological Park is directing various projects which involve many scientists and expertise. Within this ambit of activity, ENEA has analysed the health state of the modern covering structures of Villa dei Misteri, an exceptionally well-preserved domus enriched by many precious frescoes. To qualify a standard analysis procedure applicable to similar roofing typologies, very common in the archaeological site of Pompeii, a methodology based on a multidisciplinary approach has been developed. This paper is focused on the in-depth diagnostic campaign carried out on the roof structures of the Peristylium, where both timber and reinforced concrete beams have been completely analysed. The campaign has been conducted in two subsequent steps: visual and geometrical survey and then in-situ non-destructive tests for the material characterisation. On the basis of the resulting data, a visual classification has been performed and very useful information for mechanical characterisation has been collected. Finally, a proposal of restoration intervention has been suggested.