Abstract: The present invention is directed to a seismic isolation bearing having an ultimate translational distance and capacity for supporting an upper structure on a lower structure, comprising a load bearing core for absorbing forces which causes a horizontal sliding movement between the upper structure and the lower structure, an upper load bearing plate positioned on top of the uppermost load bearing body and a lower load bearing plate positioned beneath the lowermost load bearing body. The bearing further includes a tension damping device comprising a matrix material and a reinforcement material disposed therewithin and having an activation point and range. Each tension damping device is adapted to be connected between the upper load bearing plate and the lower load bearing plate for damping and stiffening the sliding movement between the upper and lower structures.