Experimental Investigation of Influences of Traffic Load on the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Stará Boleslav

Abstract

Abstract Long-term dynamic loads represent a serious factor which compromise the safety and durability of historical buildings. Though the daily traffic may cause only low level vibrations, which an undamaged structure could safely resist, extreme values of traffic loads over longer periods can be critical having as a consequence the initiation of cracks or the growth of existing ones, such that they may endanger the structure. Good maintenance including control measurements or monitoring can aid in early damage detection and timely planning of remedial actions. The preceding statements are supported by an investigation of the effects of ambient vibrations mainly due to traffic loads on the Basilica of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Stará Boleslav. Attention is aimed at a structural fault, its rehabilitation and prognosis for the future.