Interface modeling in load transfer mechanisms of multi-leaf masonry panels

•The interfaces among contacts between leaves of multi-leaf masonry walls play a main role on global behaviour of structure.•Interface characterization and failure scenario evolution enable to understand load-transfer mechanisms.•FE models were developed and calibrated by model updating procedure to assess the interface interaction between leaves.•Non-linear static analysis was compared with experimental performances of multi-leaf masonry panels.•This study enables to analyse the sensitivity of load-transfer mechanisms to core stiffness and interface effectiveness.