Modern and traditional constructions, made of load-bearing masonry. Presentation of typical masonry structures. Materials and method of construction of vertical and horizontal load-bearing elements. Actions and understanding of the path of forces. Mechanical characteristics of the main types of masonry. Mechanical behaviour of structural members under various loads and estimation of their resistances. Basic principles of design of new structures, especially under seismic actions. Construction requirements and moulding details of the load-bearing elements and their connections. Documentation, valuation and redesign of old structures due to damage or change of use. Survey, investigation and documentation of the conservation status (using non-destructive, minimally destructive and destructive techniques). Study of pathology with emphasis on earthquake damage. Qualitative assessment of behaviour and diagnosis of the causes of the lesions. Comparative presentation of intervention techniques for the repair and strengthening of existing structures, with a main focus on improving their seismic behaviour. Criteria for selecting the optimal solution. Technology of application of the interventions. Emphasis is also placed on wooden load-bearing elements and their role in the seismic protection of modern and historical masonry structures. Presentation of examples. On-site visits to historical structures, such as the Dafni Monastery and Agia Irini in Aeolou Street, Athens.