The possibilities of application of 3D digital models in cultural heritage objects' protection and revitalisation

Abstract

Contemporary cultural heritage protection relies on precise technical documentation obtained by new technology accomplishments in the domain of 3D digital models. Both 3D models of the existing state of object and virtual ones are equally important in reconstruction and renewal processes. Accurate, textured and detailed 3D point cloud models of various objects, i.e. cultural heritage monuments, are outcomes of contemporary photogrammetric and laser scanning methods, aided by adequate software solutions. The authors presented procedures and results of terrestrial laser scanning and 3D modelling of a cultural heritage monument the monastery church of the complex Kastaljan, located in the mountain region Kosmaj in Serbia. The first part of presented research, concerning data acquisition, carried out using laser scanner and adequate software processing, resulted in 3D dense point cloud model and further 2D plan view along with characteristic cross sections. The possibilities of 3D model presentation, measurements and additional graphic operations were explored, through various software solutions aided by adequate technical support. The second part of research elaborated on the reconstruction of the entire 3D model of the church in the complex Kastaljan, dated back to the 13th century, according to its architectural style characteristics.