From Ancient to Digital: the Challenges of a Major Transition Towards the Virtual Reconstruction of the Andean Past (With Special Reference to Inca Architecture.)

The definition of an underlying shape grammar behind Inca architecture can assist in the virtual archaeological reconstruction of destroyed sites; that is, allowing us to step from the ancient to the digital realm. The Inca architectural style tends to be consistent throughout the Andes and was in effect, a statement of power. Geometricity, interlocking patterns, orthogonal layouts, colour and texture reversal, modular compression, derivations, rotation, mirroring, repetition, symmetry, proportion, ratios, recombination and Andean “entasis” are qualities frequently encountered in Andean art and architecture. They are “CAD-friendly” and can be integrated into predictive digital virtual reconstruction techniques representing partially damaged and substantially destroyed ancient Andean monuments (and fine arts)