From 3d Survey to Digital Reality of a Complex Architecture: A Digital Workflow for Cultural Heritage Promotion

Abstract

Abstract. In recent years, the digitalization and dissemination of historical heritage have become crucial nodes in the preservation and valorization of Cultural Heritage (CH). Technologies such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and terrestrial photogrammetry, Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) and handheld Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping (SLAM) laser scanning allow the generation of digital models of architecture that can be explored through interactive web platforms, such as those based on WebGL graphic library. These are considered one of the most promising innovations for digitizing and sharing CH site due to their application in a wide range of contexts, promoting new forms of interaction with architecture at different scales. Additionally, the use of geomatic tools allows for a more complete 3D reconstruction and evaluation of the results by comparing different techniques. The article focuses on digitization as a tool for documenting and sharing CH assets, with the aim of developing a replicable prototype platform for an immersive Virtual Tour (VT) of an art collection and the architectural complex in which it is resided. In addition, this paper presents the results of a case study conducted at the Ricci Oddi Gallery of Modern Art in Piacenza, Italy. The source code of the implemented application is available on GitHub to permit replicability for other case studies.