New Technologies for Surveying Building Ruins

Over the centuries, our rich architectural heritage has been exposed to many different phenomena: total neglect, continuous use, constant transformation and a partial loss of integrity. Destructive events and, sometimes, lack of use mean we have inherited some structures as ruins. This paper illustrates the potential for applying new technologies to the metric documentation of building ruins and, in par- ticular, the integrated application of three-dimensional scanning systems and simplified digital photogrammetry. The sur- vey of Bivona Castle is presented as a case study. This castle, of medieval origin, is collocated in the hinterland of the Ca- labrian coast towards the Tyrrhenian Sea. Before the coastline receded, the building overlooked the sea and over time it was used for both military and productive purposes. A series of transformations and a long period of total neglect have brought about the collapse of most of the structure and made restoration necessary. A restoration project is currently being prepared.