Experimental and numerical modal analyses of a historical masonry palace

This study presents the determination of modal properties of a historical masonry palace built between 1861 and 1865 in Istanbul. Both an experimental and a numerical study have been performed. The experimental study was based on ambient vibration survey while numerical analysis was based on finite element analysis of the structure. The results of the experimental study were used to tune the numerical model of the structure. As the most doubtful parameter, the modulus of elasticity of the masonry was adjusted to achieve the experimental results with numerical model by simple operations. Obtaining good consistency between the experimental and numerical analysis, the study revealed the dynamic properties of the palace.