The timber structures in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem: Typologies and diagnosis

This paper deals with the diagnostic analysis performed on the different timber structures of the Nativity Church. The surveys were performed in agreement with the Italian standards UNI 11161:2007 and 11119:2004. The uniqueness of some structures made it necessary also the analysis and description of structural typologies. The results allow describing the different timbers utilised, the state of preservation, mechanical and biotic decays and finally to determine the present strength of each wooden element, obtained through the combination of the evaluation of the defectiveness and the measurement of the residual sections. The results of the diagnostic survey will influence the design of the structural restoration and of the maintenance operations.