Abstract
Albania, located in the seismically active Balkan region, has a significant stock of old masonry buildings still in use for residential and public purposes, making them highly vulnerable to seismic events. This study presents a quantitative assessment of the seismic vulnerability of these structures using a hybrid methodology that integrates mechanics-based numerical modeling with empirically derived damage states. Structural models of seventeen representative building typologies are prepared via the macro-element approach, with material properties calibrated from an extensive program of experimental tests. Nonlinear static (pushover) analyses are then performed to generate fragility curves. The results reveal a stark contrast in vulnerability across different construction eras. Pre-1963 buildings (Typology A) exhibit high fragility, with median spectral displacement for complete damage as low as 0.38 cm, whereas post-1978 buildings (Typology C), designed under modern seismic codes, demonstrate significantly higher capacity, with damage thresholds reaching up to 4.39 cm. A key finding is the pronounced directional vulnerability in older typologies, which is substantially mitigated in modern designs. The derived fragility curves provide critical, quantitative insights into the seismic vulnerability of Albania’s masonry building stock, offering a robust basis for risk assessment and prioritizing retrofitting strategies.