Documentation and computer reconstruction strategies in the study of architecture at the sanctuary of Poseidon at Kalaureia, Greece

Abstract

In the recording of the progress of the excavations and architectural features at the sanctuary of Poseidon at Kalaureia special emphasis has been placed on the use of current digital technologies. Three-dimensional site scanning was ruled out due to high costs and it has been largely replaced by extensive use of up to three total stations. In the recording of architecture the total stations are used to directly ‘draw’ the features with laser beam. Effective use of the laser requires frequent changes in the position of the instrument which is made possible by an extensive network of fixed points over the large site. Recording the architecture principally as lines has the added benefit of making the production of site plans and 3D reconstructions quicker. Due to the detailed measurements of the archaeological features it is also possible to present 3D digital elevation models (DEMs) of the various stages of the excavations. Further details can be added to the 3D models by draping actual photographs over the DEMs. The terrain models and recorded ancient features can be integrated with the reconstructions to display the basis of the architectural interpretations.