The article discusses the performance of masonry structures after the 2017 Lesvos earthquake (Mw=6.3). More specifically, the objective of the study is twofold: to present the structural damage and failure patterns induced by the Lesvos earthquake to masonry structures; to highlight the causes and weaknesses that led to damage, or the factors that prevented it. To this end, a field reconnaissance has been conducted and meaningful technical conclusions are drawn by the observations. After a short overview of the seismic event, the article reports the different construction typologies observed in the area. Subsequently, a systematic classification of mechanisms facilitates the discussion. It starts with local mechanisms, followed by the critical out-of-plane mechanisms and the desirable in-plane mechanisms. Then, three types of combined in-plane and out-of-plane mechanisms are presented; followed by the failure mechanisms of non-structural components. Finally, insight into the performance of past interventions is also given, and the importance of engineered and well-conceived strengthening solutions or alterations in existing buildings is stressed. Throughout the work, particular attention is paid to traditional construction techniques and architectural features that contributed to the seismic response of the structures, either having beneficial or detrimental effect.

The full article can be found at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1350630720306154