Águas Livres Aqueduct
A comprehensive assessment of the lanterns of the Águas Livres Aqueduct, a National Monument, combined detailed inspection, seismic analysis and HBIM modelling to identify structural vulnerabilities and define minimal, compatible intervention measures that enhance the monument’s safety and resilience while preserving its exceptional heritage value.
Concept & Challenge
Visible material degradation affecting the lantern structures of the aqueduct raised concerns regarding their state of conservation, structural safety and seismic vulnerability. The challenge was to carry out a comprehensive assessment of these elements while respecting the monument’s exceptional heritage value, and to define a technically robust and conservation-oriented intervention strategy.
Approach & Methodology
The work was structured in four main phases: detailed architectural and topographic surveying using laser scanning and GPS georeferencing; visual inspections and in situ experimental testing to assess material condition; seismic vulnerability assessment of the lanterns in collaboration with LNEC; and the development of an intervention design for structural strengthening and conservation. In parallel, an HBIM model was developed to consolidate all technical and heritage information into a single, coherent digital framework.
Solution & Results
The assessment enabled the identification of the structure’s main anomalies and seismic vulnerabilities, highlighting that some lanterns could be at risk under strong seismic events. Based on these findings, minimal and targeted intervention measures were defined to address the specific issues identified, ensuring full compatibility with the existing construction while enhancing structural performance and resilience of the monument.
Through a rigorous programme of inspection, seismic assessment and HBIM modelling, this project safeguarded a National Monument by identifying its vulnerabilities and defining minimal, targeted interventions that enhance structural safety while fully respecting the monument’s historic fabric and heritage value.
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