Seismic Rehabilitation of Sixteenth- and Seventeenth-Century Rammed Earth–Built Churches in the Andean Highlands: Field and Laboratory Study

Abstract

AbstractIn a Latin American context, few studies exist regarding the construction of churches during the colonial period using adobe and rammed-earth techniques. Investigations of their spatial characteristics, systems of construction, and structural behavior, therefore, are also scarce. This lack of research has led to poor results in restoration attempts for these kinds of churches, which has caused the loss of important Colombian architectural and historical heritage. Additionally, Colombia is at a high seismic risk, and adobe and rammed-earth buildings are particularly vulnerable during earthquakes. This paper presents the results of an investigation of these kinds of structures, developed by the investigative groups investigation group on materials and structures (GRIME) and Estructuras & Construccion (at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana) during the period 2002–2013. The investigation focuses on churches in the geographical area within the central Colombian highlands built during the 16th and 17th ce...