Author(s)

V. Echarri Iribarrena, M. I. Pérez Millán, A. González Avilés, J. Garabito López & A. Priego Valladares

Abstract

The laser-scanner is a considerably useful and effective tool in Heritage intervention projects. It is particularly outstanding in buildings with highly complex geometry or great scale. Such is the case of bastioned fortifications, because these buildings have usually undergone continual alterations and additions throughout their history. Santa Barbara Castle is one of the most important fortified complexes of the Spanish Mediterranean coast. It is situated in a strategic location in the city of Alicante. The fortified bastion contains several bastioned fronts and many buildings inside. During the years 2007 and 2008, a research team composed of members from the University of Alicante and the University of Burgos developed a study on the conservation status of the castle. This study was funded through research grants from the Generalitat Valenciana (Project GV reference 2007/150), and an agreement with Manuel Peláez Foundation. We have generated a 3D object of the complex through laser scanner in order to manage the analysis of the conservation status. This tool reduced greatly the architectural survey work, providing extremely accurate plans. Through hyperlinks we were able to associate the 3D elements to old and current photographs, to the details of historical cartography, to microscopy images of mineralogical analysis and to the graphical representation of pathologies as well. Thus we have immediate access to the information on each element of the castle using the program Pointools View with a simple click on each 3D element. This technique has meant better accuracy in the study of conservation status and has greatly reduced the required time. Keywords: laser-scanner, Alicante, castle, document management.

Keywords

laser-scanner, Alicante, castle, document management.