Many historic masonry buildings have been subjected to major reconstruction in order to reduce the earthquake danger, resulting in a substantial loss of the historic significance of these monuments. In addition, there has been a steady erosion of historic vernacular buildings around the world which have been abandoned or demolished because of the belief that complete rebuilding is necessary. This paper examines certain examples of traditional low strength masonry construction in Kashmir, Yugoslavia, and Greece which have evolved in earthquake-prone areas prior to the advent of concrete and steel, and which have exhibited varying degrees of seismic resistance. The principle of this aseismic masonry construction, which is discussed, is that the masonry is not restrained from cracking and shifting slightly during a tremor, allowing energy to be absorbed by the walls in a ductile manner.