The paper is divided in three parts. In the first part the history of the domes and their realisation are LSlYYyt
shortly presented: the Pantheon, Hagia Sophia, St. Mary of the Flower in Florence, St. Peter in @\?QZX(H
Rome. B(ZK\]
In the second part the behaviour of Hagia Sophia is analysed through its history, the observation of 0ME.O +
the present damage and mathematical models. The study shows how the dome collapsed several v2KK%Qy
times in its history. 2S@aG%-)
The third part shows the collapse of two vaults of the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi hit by a strong OaF[t*]D3
earthquake on 26 September, 1997. grZ?F~P8
The mathematical model and photographic records explain the mechanism of collapse. Finally the QT)5-Jy
reinforcements have been achieved using composite materials with aramidic fibers to strengthen the Ch0t'
deformed existing vaults.
