Publications
Strengthening of Masonry Arches: The “Santa Maria Delle Grazie” Church
A novel approach to reinforcing masonry arches using FRCM (Fiber-Reinforced Cementitious Matrix) composites, specifically with PBO (Polyparafenilenbenzobisoxazole) tapes, demonstrates significant potential for enhancing the seismic response of historical structures. This method compensates for the tensile strength limitations of traditional masonry by applying a grid of PBO tapes on the intrados of arches, effectively counteracting plastic hinge formation and improving structural stability. The study focuses on the Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie where ongoing restoration efforts include the reinforcement of vulnerable south arcades situated on a slope. By developing a simplified modeling strategy for FRCM-reinforced curved masonry structures, this research provides technicians with a practical tool to accurately describe the mechanical behavior of such systems, offering a promising solution for preserving cultural heritage while ensuring structural integrity.
The Cabinets of the Sacristy of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan and the Representation of Architecture
The cabinets in the sacristy of Santa Maria delle Grazie, commissioned by Ludovico il Moro after Beatrice d’Este’s death in 1497, offer a unique glimpse into the architectural and figurative practices of their anonymous creators. Unlike prior scholarship that focused on decorative techniques and perspective, this study reveals how the buildings depicted in the biblical scenes’ backgrounds reflect broader Renaissance architectural culture. While attribution remains uncertain, the analysis highlights the cabinets as significant artifacts of Milanese artistic tradition, blending heraldic symbolism with innovative spatial representation.
6 Say a Little Hallo to Padre Pio Production and Consumption of Space in the Construction of the Sacred at the Shrine of Santa Maria delle Grazie
A study reveals how the production and consumption of space at the Shrine of Santa Maria delle Grazie contribute to the construction of sacredness, offering insights into the interplay between physical environment and religious experience. The research analyzes the spatial dynamics within the shrine, focusing on its architectural and social dimensions to understand how these elements shape pilgrimage practices and the perception of the sacred. By examining the interactions between visitors, the site's design, and historical narratives, the study highlights the significance of spatial organization in fostering a sense of reverence and spiritual connection.
Mumije u crkvi Santa Maria Delle Grazie, Calascio
A newly discovered collection of mummified remains, likely dating back to the second half of the 19th century, has been found within the crypt of the Franciscan convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Calascio, Italy. The preservation of these seven mummified bodies and additional bony remains is attributed to the cold, dry environment of the crypt, located at an altitude of 1,210 meters above sea level near Gran Sasso Mountain. Preliminary surveys indicate that the mummies belonged to laypersons and were interred in wooden coffins. The study employs speleological techniques for the recovery of these remains, aiming to trace a bioanthropological profile of this small community. This discovery sheds light on the spontaneous mummification phenomenon prevalent in the inner Abruzzo region, known for its unique environmental conditions that facilitate such preservation.
Reliving history: the digital reconstruction of the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan
A groundbreaking digital reconstruction of the Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, home to Leonardo da Vinci's 'The Last Supper,' reveals the complex evolutionary history of this Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece. By integrating documentary sources, architectural treatises, period photographs, and 3D modeling, researchers mapped the chronological succession of the convent's transformations—from harmonious Renaissance interventions to incompatible 18th–19th century additions. The resulting 3D models not only serve as a tool for verifying reconstruction hypotheses but also create dynamic databases that can be easily consulted and updated, offering unprecedented insights into cultural heritage preservation and historical analysis.
Forgotten Architecture: Smart Tools for Cultural Tourism in the Cloister of the Prior (Santa Maria Delle Grazie, Milan)
A high-fidelity 3D model of the Cloister of the Prior, a lesser-known but architecturally significant part of the Santa Maria delle Grazie complex in Milan, has been successfully generated using advanced photogrammetric techniques. The study demonstrates that careful lens selection and post-processing can overcome challenges posed by smooth white surfaces to produce accurate point clouds suitable for virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications. This model serves as a foundation for immersive cultural tourism experiences, offering visitors insights into the cloister's history while also enabling future research on its historical modifications.
Modeling and Design of the Restoration and Seismic Strengthening of the Sanctuary of Santa Maria Delle Grazie at Forno under New Italian Rules NTC 2018
A new structural analysis and restoration design for the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie at Fornò, Italy, incorporates updated Italian seismic regulations (NTC 2018) to enhance its resilience. The sanctuary, a historic masonry structure with two cylindrical components—an outer cylinder (33m diameter, 15m height) and an inner temple (14m diameter, 20m height)—faces seismic risks due to its age and construction materials. The study introduces targeted interventions, including dehumidification to mitigate decay and non-linear analysis-based seismic strengthening, addressing gaps in previous assessments that relied on older guidelines (2011). These measures aim to preserve the sanctuary's integrity while adhering to modern seismic standards, ensuring long-term stability.
Chemical Characterization and Source Apportionment of Fine and Coarse Particulate Matter Inside the Refectory of Santa Maria Delle Grazie Church, Home of Leonardo Da Vinci’s “Last Supper”
A year-long study at the Church and Dominican Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan revealed that indoor particulate matter (PM) concentrations were significantly lower than outdoor levels, with PM2.5 and PM2.5-10 reduced by 88% and 94%, respectively, primarily due to an effective ventilation system. While gasoline vehicles, urban soil, and wood smoke contributed minimally to indoor organic carbon (OC), fatty acids and squalane showed high indoor-to-outdoor concentration ratios, suggesting a dominant indoor source. This research highlights the role of both outdoor pollution infiltration and indoor emissions in affecting cultural heritage, offering insights for conservation strategies.
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