Seismic vulnerability and dynamic response of the minaret of Sidi M’hammed Cherif Mosque: insights from a detailed finite element model

This study presents a seismic assessment of a historic masonry minaret in Algeria using an integrated workflow combining Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The research focuses on the minaret of the Sidi M’hammed Cherif Mosque, located in the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Algiers, an architecturally significant structure whose dynamic behaviour and seismic vulnerability had not been quantified despite ongoing restoration initiatives. Although Algeria is exposed to a considerable seismic hazard, the seismic performance of historic masonry structures remains largely unexplored, with only a limited body of research addressing this critical issue. In contrast to the extensive literature on Turkish and Egyptian minarets, research addressing seismic assessment in the Algerian and Maghreb contexts remains scarce. We developed a restoration-oriented methodology that evaluates seismic response by combining high-resolution TLS surveys, in-situ material characterisation, and detailed finite-element modelling. Linear static, modal, and response spectrum analyses were performed to identify critical vulnerability zones, particularly at the base of the minaret and at geometric discontinuities. The numerical results show strong agreement with the observed damage patterns, validating the proposed approach. The study establishes a reproducible TLS-to-FEA framework for the seismic evaluation of slender masonry heritage structures and provides evidence-based recommendations to support conservation planning. By integrating seismic risk assessment into restoration practice, this work contributes to improved risk mitigation and more resilient heritage preservation in Algeria.