A modified corbelling theory for domes with horizontal layers

•Corbelling theory does not interpret structural behavior of “false domes.”•An extended model of corbelling theory is proposed.•“Stability angle” is introduced in order to guarantee overturning balance.•Closed form expression for stability angle is derived for cone-shaped dome.•Insight on how the angle of stability varies as function of dome geometry. In the Mediterranean area, buildings with roofs arranged as corbelled domes comprise a widespread and valuable heritage that deserves protection and enhancement. Unfortunately, structural behavior of corbelled domes has been investigated only to a limited extent. We compare results from the corbelling theory in the determination of intrados and extrados curves that attain limit balance conditions against evidences in two real cases of study. This shows that the theory is not able to capture the structural behavior of the corbelled domes. We thus propose a modified corbelling theory that emulates the actions along dome parallels through the collaboration among infinitesimal meridian wedges. Results obtained show that the proposed theory is able to correctly interpret the structural behavior of these domes.