Mariateresa Galizia

The catacombs of san giovanni in syracuse: surveying, digital enhancement and revitalization of an archaeological landmark

This study is a cross-disciplinary research carried out by archaeologists, engineers and architects aimed at the knowledge and enhancement of the San Giovanni catacombs complex in Syracuse. The study uses the most innovative 3D surveying and virtual reproduction technologies and methodologies in order to broaden the understanding of the archaeological sites most peculiar features. The digital 3D models of the rooms studied here can be used to enhance the visiting experience and the online presence of the archaeological complex.

Digital Reconstruction of Archaeological Sites and Monuments: Some Experiences in South-Eastern Sicily

Over the past few years, technological innovation has contributed to the development of the methodology to acquire, analyse, use and convey information about cultural heritage. Among all the possible methods for acquiring data, those related to 3D laser scanners (Time of flight or structured light) stand out. By using these technologies it is possible to sample, in a short time and with great accuracy, millions of points from real world objects obtaining a detailed 3D representation. This study presents the results of research carried out on archaeological sites and monuments of South-Eastern Sicily. The case studies presented belong to different type sites and they have been dealt with using methodological approaches chosen for the specific purposes of the study (restoration and conservation project, 3D reconstruction and visualisation, 3D documentation). The comparison between the different case studies might be the starting point for a new standardisation of digital representation of archaeological heritage objects and new methodological procedures.

Multidisciplinary Investigations on the Byzantine Oratory of the Catacombs of Saint Lucia in Syracuse

This paper presents the outcomes of a multidisciplinary study conducted on the fresco palimpsest of the byzantine oratory (region C) of the Catacombs of Saint Lucia in Syracuse. The 3D model was integrated with data from investigations made with portable X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (pXRF), and Technical Photography (TP), in order to obtain a unified representation of the knowledge acquired. The different layers of the frescoes present in the palimpsest could then be individually identified and characterized using the data extracted from the model. The arcosolium examined here is an illustrative case study characterized by clear artistic and archaeological stratifications.