The paper is divided in three parts. In the first part the history of the domes and their realisation are eU\_m5xl"
shortly presented: the Pantheon, Hagia Sophia, St. Mary of the Flower in Florence, St. Peter in <6C :\{eo
Rome. )%HIC@MM6
In the second part the behaviour of Hagia Sophia is analysed through its history, the observation of mH )i
the present damage and mathematical models. The study shows how the dome collapsed several L!~ap
times in its history. )-\qo#0l
The third part shows the collapse of two vaults of the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi hit by a strong ,
jCE
hb
earthquake on 26 September, 1997. S4
s#EDs
The mathematical model and photographic records explain the mechanism of collapse. Finally the LB^xdMXi
reinforcements have been achieved using composite materials with aramidic fibers to strengthen the U=[isi+7
deformed existing vaults.
