Microtremor analysis of the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem

Earthquakes along the Dead Sea Transform (DST) and in the Dead Sea Basin pose a considerable seismic hazard to the city of Jerusalem. To assess possible local site amplification due to either stratigraphical or morphological effects, we conducted seismic noise measurements at the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre.The fact that the Basilica is built partially on detrital covers and alluvial filling provides further motivation for the study. Noise data are complemented by two earthquakes that were recorded at three seismic stations during the field measurement period.The results do not indicate site amplification at the Basilica ground, at least not for the major eigenfrequencies of the building.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► To assess possible local site amplification seismic noise measurements were conducted at the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre. ► The study did not identify significant site amplification on the Basilica area. ► No area of the building was in resonance with the soil.