Structural engineers vs. conservators, safety vs. preservation: problems, doubts and proposals

This paper addresses the problem related of the conservation and protection of architectural heritage in Italy, with particular emphasis on the critical analysis of the different points of view of structural engineers and conservators. Heavy structural-oriented interventions as well as the underestimation of the importance of the structural safety of masonry monuments has produced, in the past, irreversible damage and loss of important constructions belonging to the architectural heritage in Italy. The issue of structural safety, especially for monuments located in seismic prone areas, is compared with the need for conservation of a masonry monument within the concept of minimal intervention. The Italian building guidelines for interventions of the Cultural Heritage are also discussed, highlighting some limitations and important advancements.