Large-scale contact analysis for the stability estimation of the Mnajdra monuments

The Maltese Megalithic Temples, are among the oldest free-standing structures of such complexity in the world. The Mnajdra megalithic structures, date to the 4th millennium BCE, are of international significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The appraisal of structural performance is necessary to safeguard these monuments. Towards this direction, assessment of the material properties of Mnajdra megalithic monument in Malta is considered by means of finite element analysis and comparison with experimental research. First, the geometry of the monument has been imported from laser-scanner data provided by the local authorities. Then, experimental microtremor measurements are compared with parametric eigenvalue finite element analysis, for the determination of the proper material properties.