Seismic Risk Prioritization of Stone Masonry Building Stock in Urla Peninsula Based on Rapid Assessment Techniques

Abstract

This study aims to investigate seismic risk of stone masonry buildings in the Urla Peninsula, a region of historical and architectural significance within İzmir, Türkiye. A total of 100 stone masonry buildings were surveyed and documented with a focus on their architectural characteristics, including construction techniques, material types, structural configurations, and age. Data on the properties of all surveyed buildings are provided in an open-access database. Based on the survey, multiple rapid seismic performance assessment methods were applied to evaluate the vulnerability of these structures. These included: i) FEMA P-154 Rapid Visual Screening, ii) Provisions for the Seismic Risk Evaluation of Existing Buildings under Urban Renewal Law (RBTE-2019), iii) Seismic Vulnerability Index for Vernacular Architecture (SVIVA), and iv) the Masonry Quality Index (MQI). The comparative use of different methods is intended to investigate the relative influence of parameters shaping the seismic performance of the masonry building stock rather than to align their scores. The outcomes of this research are expected to contribute to the current risk mitigation efforts for stone masonry buildings in İzmir, thereby supporting regional seismic resilience planning. © 2026, Turkish Chamber of Civil Engineers. All rights reserved.