Structural Analysis of Tirana’s Clock Tower in Albania

Abstract

Preservation of the ancient heritage and old structures for future generations is considered as a fundamental issue in the cultural life of modern societies. The purpose of preserving old monuments is to protect them as enduring landmarks and as testimony of the Albanian’s unique, multi ethnic and rich cultural heritage. On the other hand, the repair and conservation of historical buildings and monuments is a complex and challenging discipline. Watch towers are common in Albania. In many cities these towers are often protected by law as part of the cultural heritage. The main focus of this paper is to investigate and to present a summary of the results of the structural response of the Clock tower of Tirana, including its response under gravity and seismic loads. The stress concentrations at the critical locations are investigated and the analysis results were discussed.