Showing the invisible – documentation and research on the Roman Domitilla catacomb, based on image laser scanning and 3D modelling

In: Posluschny, A. ; Lambers, K. ; Herzog, I. (Hrsgg.): Layers of Perception. Proceedings of the 35th International Conference on Computer Applications and Quantitative Methods in Archaeology (CAA), Berlin, 2.-6. April 2007. Koll. Vor- u. Frühgesch. 10. Bonn 2008, pp. 58-64

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Abstract

The possibilities offered by new technologies do not automatically substitute for traditional techniques. Particularly in the collaboration between humanities and natural sciences, not all that is technically possible is also helpful for a study. In this paper, an archaeological project is presented that connects both solid basic research and the newest technologies, offering a new way of perceiving historical space by creating three-dimensional virtual reality models. An overview of the technical aspects of the first year of the Domitilla project is presented: the first part introduces the catacomb, previous studies and the present research concept, whilst the second part reports on the strategy and the initial results of the documentation.