Abstract: A device for limiting stresses exerted by neighbouring ground on a buried structure which comprises at least two neighbouring elements which form at least one part of the wall of the structure. The stress limiting device comprises at least one longitudinal slidable plate adapted to be connected by one of its edge portions to one of the neighbouring structure elements, at least two longitudinal guide elements adapted to be connected to the other structure element and applied respectively by one of their faces against at least the opposed edge portion of the slidable plate. A plurality of fixing means extend through apertures in the slidable plate and in the guide elements for clamping the opposed edge portion of the slidable plate between said guide elements. At least one of the guide elements constitutes a fishplate.