Safety assessment of the Torre de la Vela in la Alhambra, Granada, Spain: The role of on site works

•A 3D Finite Element model was prepared and validated to perform a safety assessment of the Torre de la Vela in the Alhambra of Granada (Spain). An extensive inspection and diagnosis campaign made it possible to calibrate the preliminary numerical model obtained basing exclusively on literature information. The final numerical model was more reliable and better represented the actual conditions of the building.•The seismic safety of the building was specifically investigated. The displacement-based assessment carried out following indications of current codes confirmed that the structure has a significant capacity under earthquake loading, mainly due to the massive earthen walls and geometric proportions.•The results shows to what extent the information obtained from a literature study concerning geometry and material properties was modified as a result of the experimental campaign. They highlight the importance of in-situ experimental testing for a reliable structural analysis of historical buildings. The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Granada, which is the area with the highest seismic hazard in Spain. The present work focuses on the seismic safety evaluation of the Torre de la Vela, the main tower of the Alcazaba, the fortress of the Alhambra and the first area of the citadel built in the 13th century. The safety evaluation is carried out using finite element modeling and nonlinear static analyses. In a first phase, a numerical model of the tower was prepared based solely on bibliographic review and a first set of analyses was carried out. In a second phase, the monument was visited and a detailed survey including non-destructive testing was carried out. A second set of analyses was performed using an updated model calibrated with experimental results and the seismic safety assessment was carried out. The results are systematically compared and highlight the importance of on-site works for a correct safety assessment of historic structures.