3D models for the valorisation of the Samnite structural style tombs (Capua 3rd century BC)

This study adopts a recursive, pedagogical approach across multiple academic years, integrating innovative tools and techniques. It investigates four 3rd century BC Samnite chamber tombs, originally excavated on Mount Massico’s southern slopes and reconstructed near Santa Maria Capua Vetere (Caserta, Italy). These tombs exhibit a “structural style” of wall paintings: life size columns with echinus connected by trabeated motifs framing burial beds. Through reality based 3D surveying and photogrammetry using Structure from Motion (SfM), researchers generated detailed interior sections and elevations, uncovering overlaps between actual burial items and painted elements. This fusion of real and depicted artifacts parallels contemporary augmented reality visitor experiences, as seen in scan-toXR heritage projects. The study recommends a comprehensive communication strategy that leverages digital, multimedia, and multimodal methods to engage communities and secure funding for heritage preservation. Dense point-cloud acquisition and textured photomodeling - enabled by SfM and multi-view stereo - offer precise, non-invasive documentation. These digital reconstructions serve as foundations for Extended Reality (XR) environments, where users immerse themselves in reconstructed tomb spaces, forging meaningful connections with ancient rituals and narratives.