Numerical modelling to calibrate the geotechnical model of a deep-seated landslide in weathered crystalline rocks: Acri (Calabria, Italy)

Crystalline rocks are often subjected to several types of mass movements, depending on their weathering grade. These rocks are present in the European area along the Italian and French Alps, in the North-East area of Portugal, in the Sierra Nevada Massif (Spain) and in Greece. In particular, crystalline rocks are also widespread in Calabria and a high percentage of these rocks is present in the Sila, Serre and Aspromonte Massifs. Fresh or weathered crystalline rocks, highly fractured, may be affected by deep-seated landslides due to the presence of tectonic structures, which may predispose and control the landslide mechanisms. The Serra di Buda landslide, near the town of Acri (Cosenza), can be included among the deep-seated landslides which affect weathered crystalline rocks. Starting from the geological model, the analysis of the geotechnical data (digital terrain model, borehole logs, piezometer levels, superficial and deep displacements, geomaterial characteristics, etc.) allows to detect the uncertainties inherent the elements that concur to define the geotechnical model. To reduce some of these uncertainties a calibration by means of numerical modelling is carried out, and the results obtained show the usefulness of this approach.