Archeomatica è una nuova rivista multidisciplinare, stampata in Italia, dedicata alla presentazione e alla diffusione di metodologie avanzate, tecnologie emergenti e tecniche per la conoscenza, la documentazione, salvaguardia, conservazione e valorizzazione del patrimonio culturale.
Gli autori che pubblicano su questa rivista accettano le seguenti condizioni: Gli autori mantengono i diritti sulla loro opera e cedono alla rivista il diritto di prima pubblicazione dell'opera, contemporaneamente licenziata sotto una Licenza Creative Commons - Attribuzione che permette ad altri di condividere l'opera indicando la paternità intellettuale e la prima pubblicazione su questa rivista. Gli autori possono aderire ad altri accordi di licenza non esclusiva per la distribuzione della versione dell'opera pubblicata (es. depositarla in un archivio istituzionale o pubblicarla in una monografia), a patto di indicare che la prima pubblicazione è avvenuta su questa rivista. Gli autori possono diffondere la loro opera online (es. in repository istituzionali o nel loro sito web) prima e durante il processo di submission, poiché può portare a scambi produttivi e aumentare le citazioni dell'opera pubblicata (Vedi The Effect of Open Access).
Esplorazioni virtuali. Un tour 3D interattivo per raccontare il Museo di Geografia di Padova
Uso di Reti Private 5G per servizi museali
Modern telecommunications networks, from third generation onwards, based on the IP protocol, allow for varying levels of technological flexibility. One level involves the ability to create virtual networks, managed by virtual operators (VNOs), i.e., non-licensed operators who, based on technical/ commercial agreements with licensed operators, offer services independently. Another level involves the creation of private networks, i.e., the use of infrastructure for a defined set of users, usually belonging to a well-defined community (company, public entity, public service provider, etc.), who access a well-defined set of services exclusively by connecting to a core network or a dedicated portion of it. Private network technology can be efficiently used for a variety of services and applications, and among these, the museum sector is certainly among the most suitable and interesting. This article focuses specifically on the use of 5G private networks (the latest generation of the mobile network standard), which introduces additional technological possibilities that bring benefits in terms of both performance and user experience. In particular, 5G introduced the ability to access the core network via WiFi for all services. This feature allows for improved and complete 5G network coverage via RAN at extremely low costs.
Le nuove frontiere della mediazione culturale
Digital technologies are increasingly transforming museums into experiential spaces where historical contexts can be reconstructed and narrated. Three-dimensional reconstructions, virtual reality, immersive environments and digital storytelling enable visitors to explore lost architectures, ancient cities and intangible heritage. Rather than focusing on technology as a spectacle, contemporary museums are adopting narrative-driven solutions that enhance understanding, emotional engagement and accessibility. Recent trends show that immersive experiences and historical reconstructions are among the most appreciated tools for cultural mediation, supporting a shift towards museums as dynamic, participatory and inclusive spaces.
Reframing Cultural Landscape: Geophilosophy, Spatial Experience and Design Practices
This article reconsiders the concept of cultural landscape through the intersection of geophilosophy and contemporary design practices. While traditional interpretations often describe landscape as a material outcome of interactions between environment and human settlement, this study proposes a relational and process-oriented framework in which landscape is understood as a dynamic cultural field shaped by perception, memory, and spatial practices. Drawing on philosophical reflections on place, territoriality, and spatial experience, the article argues that cultural landscapes should be interpreted as historically layered configurations in which symbolic meanings, material forms, and collective practices interact across time. Within this perspective, landscape becomes not only an object of representation but also an epistemological and operational framework for understanding and shaping spatial transformations. By bridging theoretical reflection and design-oriented approaches, the article demonstrates how geophilosophy can provide a conceptual foundation for interpreting landscape complexity, while design practices offer tools for engaging with its ongoing transformation. The study contributes to current debates in landscape studies and spatial humanities by framing cultural landscape as a living cultural process that links interpretation, memory, and territorial design.
Una visione condivisa: competenze ICT al servizio della storia
In today's landscape, cultural heritage is no longer just a collection of objects to be silently observed, but a living ecosystem that requires new ways of interaction. The challenge for museums, galleries, libraries, and places of worship is to transform the visit from a passive moment of reception to an active experience of dialogue. Thanks to the integration of Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Artificial Intelligence, we are witnessing a revolution: one in which technology does not replace the artwork, but unleashes its narrative potential. The starting point of this evolution is not merely technological, but methodological. With thirty years of expertise in the ICT sector, our approach is based on a core concept: building a vision together. We do not offer "off-the-shelf" products, but state-of-the-art solutions that stem from a dynamic approach, aimed at concretizing the specific needs of conservation and dissemination. The goal is to provide professionals in the sector and institutions with tools that are, at the same time, concrete support for management and catalysts of wonder for the public. In this scenario, institutions become partners in a creative process that aims to celebrate history through innovation.
Un monumento in alta definizione: il catalogo digitale della Cappella Sansevero
The online publication of the first digital catalogue of the Cappella Sansevero marks a turning point in the monument’s scholarly understanding and scientific enhancement: the first complete cataloguing of its heritage, the result of a multi-year project coordinated by Gianluca Forgione with a team of specialists. This cataloguing tackles an organic, one-of-a-kind complex in which architecture, sculpture, painting, and symbolic programs are inseparable, addressing a longstanding lack of up-to-date research tools. The digital catalogue—updateable and interoperable—incorporates gigapixel images as primary research resources. The collaboration with Haltadefinizione (Gruppo Panini Cultura) was pivotal. The 31 essaystyle entries provide new interpretations, sources, and attribution updates.
Archaeological signatures in arid regions detected by high-resolution satellite images
A methodology for analysing very high-resolution (VHR) satellite images was developed to detect buried structures in arid regions using optical and infrared bands. Applied to the desert around the Giza Plateau, it revealed four sand-covered areas of interest. West of the pyramids, evidence of quarrying activities and an underground chamber was identified. Shadow analysis suggested buried vessels, possibly a depot linked to pyramid construction, while 3D topography indicated a probable ancient waterway. Additional features, including tombs, architectural remains, and other buried structures, were also detected and described.
Tecnologie, conoscenza e innovazione: un ecosistema per il patrimonio culturale
Contemporary architectural practice often privileges new construction, risking the loss of architecture’s socio- cultural dimension in favour of standardized, market-oriented production. This paper argues for the re-emergence of reuse as a fundamental design strategy, rooted in historical building practices that emphasized adaptation and material continuity. Through the lens of architectural spolia, reuse is interpreted as both a pragmatic and cultural act, capable of preserving memory while transforming meaning. Case studies such as the Medusa protomes in Istanbul and the Tetrarchs in Venice illustrate how reuse has ensured material survival. Digital technologies further extend this process, enabling contextual reconstruction and inaugurating new cognitive lives for reused architectural fragments.
The value of itinerant fragments between Asia Minor and Europe
Built heritage constitutes a layered record of human activity, often surviving as fragmented architecture and dispersed artefacts. Historical excavation practices frequently removed architectural elements from their original contexts, generating spatial and interpretive disconnections. This study explores the potential of digital technologies to virtually reunite displaced heritage, focusing on selected statues and architectural fragments from the Hellenistic city of Priene, now divided between the archaeological site and museums in Berlin. Through photogrammetry, laser scanning, and 3D modelling, the research investigates original spatial relationships and proposes a dual framework in which digital recomposition enhances both archaeological interpretation and museum presentation while preserving the integrity of the original artefacts.
On Stage in Antiquity, On Screen in the Digital Age: Two Thousand Years of urban presence and integration of the Theatre in Priene
The Theatre of Priene is a well-preserved example of Greek theatrical architecture, offering an exceptional case study for the integration of historical documentation and digital methodologies. The theatre dates to the late Classical and early Hellenistic period and preserves cavea, orchestra, proedria, and proskenion. It was the subject of extensive documentation during late 19th-century excavations, which provides a solid foundation for interpretative reconstruction. This study presents a comprehensive digital workflow combining photogrammetric survey, parametric modelling, and virtual reality visualisation. UAV and terrestrial photogrammetry allowed producing a metrically reliable 3D model, subsequently refined through data cleaning and validation against historical sources. The model was then transposed into typological elements governed by generative rules, enabling the creation of a metadata-based system. The integration of detailed modelling and material rendering further enhanced the legibility of architectural forms and surface characteristics. Finally, the digital model was implemented within a virtual environment to support immersive exploration and comparative analysis between the current state and reconstructed hypotheses, demonstrating how the convergence of archaeological evidence, digital survey techniques, and advanced visualisation tools can produce a coherent and accessible narrative for both scholarly investigation and public dissemination.
Magnesia ad Maeander, the Stadium, a matter of scale
The Stadium of Magnesia ad Maeander represents one of the most monumental and well-preserved athletic architectures of Asia Minor, distinguished by its scale, architectural complexity, and rich cultural significance. Built in the first century AD along the slopes of two hills, the stadium accommodated approximately 30,000 spectators, closely connected to the city’s civic life. Archaeological investigations have progressively revealed its architectural layout, installations for athletic competitions, and extensive sculptural and epigraphic programs. Originally associated with the Leucophryena festival dedicated to Artemis, the stadium hosted a wide range of events. Architectural analysis, however, suggests that its design was optimized primarily for athletic and light equestrian activities rather than full-scale chariot racing. Of particular importance are the reliefs decorating the podium walls and the numerous inscriptions carved on seating and architectural elements, which provide valuable insights into social stratification, professional associations, inter-city relations, and elite patronage within Magnesia. Recent digital documentation campaigns employing UAV and terrestrial photogrammetry have enabled the creation of high-resolution 3D models of the stadium and its sculptural elements. These digital datasets support multi-scalar analysis, enhance interpretative possibilities, and contribute significantly to the long-term study, conservation, and dissemination of this exceptional architectural complex.
Priene, an ancient tale about the fury of Nature
The paper describes Priene’s long history of natural and human destruction, focusing on how earthquakes shaped its urban development and relocation. It highlights the role of modern digital technologies, such as 3D scanning, photogrammetry, and virtual archives, in documenting damage, preserving cultural heritage, and reconnecting dispersed artefacts. Through integrated digital workflows, the study demonstrates how these tools enhance archaeological understanding and support future conservation.
Priene and Magnesia ad Maeander: main architectures and urban morphology
Priene and Magnesia ad Maeander constitute two emblematic case studies for investigating Hellenistic urban planning, architectural form, and the relationship between cities and their environmental settings in western Anatolia. Both settlements developed within the Maeander valley during the Hellenistic period, under complex political and cultural conditions following Alexander the Great’s conquests, and later underwent significant transformations during Roman rule before abandonment. Despite differences in scale, origin, and topographical context, the two cities share fundamental planning principles rooted in the Hippodamian urban model, characterized by orthogonal layouts and a clear hierarchy of civic, religious, and residential spaces. Priene, founded on the steep slopes of Mount Mykale, represents one of the most complete examples of an orthogonal urban system adapted to a challenging terrain. Its preserved street grid, domestic quarters, and monumental buildings, including the Temple of Athena Polias, reflect the ideological coherence of Hellenistic urbanism. Magnesia ad Maeander, established in a flatter landscape, developed on a larger scale, enabling the construction of extensive monumental complexes such as the Artemision and the stadium, which expressed civic identity and regional importance. The impact of environmental dynamics, including seismic activity and fluvial processes, have a significant impact on the urban evolution of both cities. Recent digital survey campaigns using photogrammetry and 3D laser scanner technologies in the present time, are essential tools for documenting, analysing, and interpreting these complex archaeological contexts.
Time fragments: design proposal forTheodosius’s Forum, Istanbul
The Laser scanner survey of the remains of the Forum of Theodosius in Istanbul, conducted by Zemastek in cooperation with Giorgio Verdiani, was the foundation for the design developed during the international workshop Architecture and Archaeology. Theodosius’ Forum, Istanbul. The design proposes the partial demolition of the Simkeshane building, defining a new excavation of the area of the forum, revealing the ancient Mese. The project also includes a small pavilion as the gate of the archaeological area, with an Analogical and digital Augmented Reality (AR) device displaying the reconstruction of Theodosius’ arch.
Urban digital survey in Galata/Beyoglu: remains of the genoese wallsand of a Caravansary/Bazar
Galata, one of the most historically layered districts of Istanbul, represents a critical site for understanding the urban palimpsest of the Golden Horn. The research focuses on the analysis and documentation of selected blocks along the Galata waterfront, investigating the relationship between surviving defensive structures, later architectural additions, and contemporary transformations affecting the district. The study adopts an interdisciplinary methodology combining archival and cartographic research, architectural-historical analysis, stratigraphic urban reading, and advanced metric digital surveying through 3D laser scanning. The resulting point clouds, orthophotos, and CAD restitutions enabled the reconstruction of diachronic transformations and the identification of alterations, discontinuities, and degradation patterns within key architectural artifacts, including the second tower of the fortification system and the historic Caravansary complex. The integration of empirical survey data and historical sources facilitated the development of a coherent interpretative narrative linking urban growth processes to the physical evidence of masonry structures and spatial organization. This approach contributes to understanding the dynamics through which traditional urban tissues have been replaced by new construction driven by globalized market logic, often compromising typological continuity and authenticity. The outcomes support conservation-oriented strategies, promote informed decision-making for restoration and reuse, and provide a framework for future research and public dissemination. The work, presented and discussed during the International Urban Design Workshop “Urban Façade: Istanbul Waterfront” (2019), highlights the value of accurate documentation as a tool for preserving memory and guiding culturally responsible urban transformation.
This paper presents two workshops in Cyprus focused on documenting and rethinking the use of historical built heritage: the Acheiropoietos Monastery (2014) and Kyrenia Castle (2018). Using 3D laser scanning, photogrammetry, and UAV surveys, the projects revealed multiple construction phases, structural features, and historical layers. Special attention was given to the Kyrenia Shipwreck and wall graffiti. The resulting digital models supported architectural analysis, conservation strategies, HBIM development, and museum enhancement proposals. These workshops demonstrate how interdisciplinary approaches and advanced digital methods can effectively study, preserve, and valorize cultural heritage.
Ten years of digital documentation in Asia Minor
La rivoluzione digitale che attraversa il mondo dei beni culturali non è soltanto una questione di strumenti o piattaforme: è un cambiamento di paradigma nel modo di costruire, diffondere o condividere conoscenza.
Accessibilità digitale e inclusione nei musei archeologici: le soluzioni di Collettivo Digitale
Digital accessibility and inclusion in archaeological museums are increasingly relevant challenges. Beyond removing architectural barriers, cultural heritage must be made available to all audiences through innovative, inclusive solutions. Among these, TANGENT stands out as a modular and customizable system that combines tactile panels, multimedia displays, sign language videos and audio descriptions in one accessible ecosystem. These solutions transform museums into multisensory and participatory spaces, fostering a vision of inclusive community hubs where everyone can engage, learn, and share.
Interview with Luigi Franciosini. Architecture as a dialogue: context, matter, and the fabric of time
The interview with architect Luigi Franciosini explores the intricate dialogue between architecture, archaeology, and landscape, focusing on the delicate balance between conservation and innovation. Drawing from his experiences—from the Porta Vecchia in Sutri to the Sette Sale project in Rome—Franciosini discusses architecture as an act of “listening” to the material, historical, and topographical layers that define a place. He advocates an approach rooted in contextual awareness, craftsmanship, and interdisciplinary collaboration, where technology serves as a tool to reveal, not obscure, the historical fabric. Emphasizing the concepts of “re-recognition” and “activation”, he proposes a design philosophy that views history as a living continuum—a “suspended truth” open to interpretation, imagination, and renewal..
Digital Technologies as Sensory and Cognitive Bridges: The Metaverse Lab at the “Infiniti Mondi” House of emerging technology in Naples
Il paper illustra una parte del Laboratorio Metaverso della Casa delle Tecnologie Emergenti “Infiniti Mondi” di Napoli, un centro per la ricerca e la formazione sulle Industrie Culturali e Creative. Il laboratorio, coordinato dal CNR ISPC, adotta principi FAIR e dell’Universal Design, promuovendo accessibilità, narrazione scientifica e coinvolgimento sensoriale, supportando lo sviluppo di competenze e l’innovazione nella valorizzazione del patrimonio culturale; offre esperienze immersive e multisensoriale in realtà virtuale, aumentata e mista integrando tecnologie e casi studio interdisciplinari. In questa sede, in particolare, si approfondiranno i casi di studio archeologici e come siano state integrate tecnologie, narrative e metadati.
Tecnologie digitali per il Patrimonio Culturale: Risultati e applicazioni della piattaforma D-tech
Within the D-TECH project, has been developed an innovative web-based multimedia platform for the management and exploitation of cultural heritage has been developed, capable of making dialogue between 3D models, HBIM, point clouds and GIS data with the standards of the ARCO ontology. Intended for the institutions that protect the heritage, as well as all those who study it, value it or simply carry out research activities, it is designed as a modular and open-source tool capable of offering advanced monitoring services, the diagnosis, conservation and use of cultural assets.
Cultura digital e green? Metodologia e primi risultati di una mappatura di buone pratiche
The integration of digital and sustainable practices in cultural heritage is essential for innovation and the enhancement of heritage. This study examines the research methodology and analyzes the data collected from the mapping of 44 best practices within the Eco Art initiative, funded by the PNRR, highlighting trends and strategies for the digital and green transition of the cultural sector. The results demonstrate a wide adoption of technological tools such as 3D digitization, augmented reality, and methodologies for sustainability. The data analysis also highlights the role of training, the involvement of cultural institutions, and the importance of a user-centered approach to improve accessibility and public interaction. Furthermore, the study investigates the sustainability principles pursued through "green" strategies in the production of both goods and services. The evidence confirms an increasing awareness of environmental sustainability issues, with best practices aimed at improving environmental performance, while maintaining a significant connection with tangible material assets as tools for promotion and information.
Geomatic sciences in the service of Art and Culture
Archeomatica is pleased to have had the opportunity to dedicate this special issue to one of the most significant projects exemplifying Italy’s ability to apply geomatic sciences in the service of art and culture.
Large Mediterranean Cultural Heritage, a Strategic Global Digital Project
At its core, CHEDAR aims to establish a Research and Advanced Training and Education Centre, envisioned as a nerve center for the convergence of scientific efforts from partner institutions.
Protecting the Arno River and its Historic Urban Landscape from Climate Risks
The historic centre of Florence, crossed by the Arno River and immersed in its landscape context, has remained virtually unchanged over the centuries, so much so that it was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as early as 1982.
The Grotto of the Animals. A sixteenth century “hydraulic machine”
Set within a celebratory context of the Medici dynasty, the grotto is considered the prototype of artificial caves that, starting in the mid-16th century, spread across Italy and Europe. It was built alongside the garden, designed by Niccolò Pericoli, known as Tribolo. Since 2013, the Villa has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. Through the digital twin, it becomes possible to trace the historical path of the water, observe how it has changed over time, and document not only the material heritage, but also the intangible values of this intricate 16th-century hydraulic machine.
Sammezzano Castle an oriental dream in the heart of Tuscany
Nestled among the hills of the Upper Valdarno, in Leccio, the Castle of Sammezzano stands as one of the most striking examples of Orientalist architecture in Italy.
CHEDAR Project work-packages description
- Digitizing Memory for looking into the Future coordinated by University of Florence. - A New Generation of Multidisciplinary Experts for Cultural Heritage Challenges coordinated by University of Florence - Digital Creativity and Artificial Intelligence Coordinated by the Accademia di Belle Arti of Carrara - Communication and Outreach, Lead Partner Istituto Superiore per le Industrie Artistiche di Firenze - Scientific Research & Creativity: the best practice for new life of cultural heritage coordinated by CNR-ISPC