Geometry and construction techniques of late-Baroque domes in central-eastern Sicily

Based on the well-established assumption that the reconstruction of the historical development of monuments constitutes a crucial prerequisite for restoration actions, this paper presents an analysis of six domes, located in Central-Eastern Sicily and built after the devastating earthquake that hit the area in 1693. The study deals with historical data, geometrical and architectural aspects, building techniques and cul-tural/technical factors that might have influenced the design. With the aid of laser scanning and image-based surveys, the authors have specifically investigated the theoretical and practical rules that guided the implementation of domes, with special reference to their shape. Historical construction criteria, in fact, were based more on proportional rules rather than on analytical ones. On the one hand, architects sought the ideal dome shape trying to achieve the optimal compromise between beauty and stability, on the other, specialized craftsmen put their mark on the con-struction with their experience and the use of local building traditions. The present analysis considers these previous factors as well as other aspects, such as the links between design and construction, local features and stylistic trends, the role of ar-chitects and workers, with the aim to widen the knowledge on domes, which are considered among the most daring structures of the past