Vaulted Structures in the Archaeological Park of Pompeii: 3d Survey and Monitoring

Abstract. The contribution focuses on the relationship between preventive conservation and digital technologies, with particular attention to the Archaeological Park of Pompeii and its masonry vaults. These fragile macro-elements, both for their intrinsic condition of ruins and for their historical vulnerability to seismic stress, were detected through a careful 3D survey, in the context of the Great Pompeii Project (GPP). The analysis was carried out in 2015 with laser-scanning technology and photogrammetry, and was aimed at the knowledge, documentation and measurement of conditions of degradation or instability. On the basis of a deep knowledge, supported by in situ investigations, it was possible to define the most appropriate conservative interventions for vaulted structures. Also, the interpretation of the vulnerabilities and of the causes of degradations phenomena allowed focusing on the program phase, in order to maintain the benefits of restoration over time. Moreover, the contribution anticipates how these surveys will be integrated by a doctoral research with industrial characterization. This research is currently being conducted in close relationship with Tecno In – a leading company in the field of knowledge and diagnostics of cultural heritage – and its object is the experimentation of innovative techniques for diagnostics, preventive conservation and restoration of the vaulted structures of Pompeii. Therefore, in the comparison with the surveys realized in 2015 lies the opportunity of deepening the understanding and of monitoring the evolution of degradation conditions of the vaulted buildings under exam