Architectural Features and Soil Properties of Traditional Rammed Earth Houses: Eastern Croatia Case Study

Abstract

Rammed earth buildings constitute a large part of the housing stock in rural areas. Although these houses are recognized as a cultural heritage, detailed analyses of their architectural features, geometric parameters crucial for structural stability, and soil properties used for their construction have not yet been carried out in Croatia. The aim of this study is to collect basic data on the architectural features and material properties of rammed earth walls through field research in Croatia. These data are crucial for both numerical and experimental studies to improve the understanding of the structural behavior of rammed earth houses. Data were obtained through field research and a detailed survey of 22 houses. The houses were analyzed, samples of the rammed earth walls were collected, and their properties were tested in the laboratory. This study contributes to a better understanding of regional building practices and provides data that will enable us to identify the causes of damage in future studies and to select rehabilitation measures to preserve the authentic symbols of cultural heritage.