Three-Dimensional Documentation of Architecture and Archaeology in the Field: Combining Intensive Total Station Drawing and Photogrammetry

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Abstract

Recent advancements in digital technologies have resulted in quick changes how architecture can be documented in three dimensions. Building remains are one of the most typical classes of archaeological features discovered in a large number of fieldwork projects, and new developments in hard- and software are fast replacing traditional ways of recording and draughtsmanship. Even though laser scanning is still beyond the budget of most projects, high-quality recording can be achieved using digital photography and total stations. Two-dimensional line-drawings can be directly derived from the intensive stone-by-stone documentation carried out using reflectorless total stations: the projections can be produced to any required direction (plans, elevations, sections). For large complexes drone photography can shorten the required fieldwork time. Several case studies of combining total station recording with aerial and land-based photogrammetry are presented in this paper. Full three-dimensional documentation of existing features allows also for reconstructions which fit the recorded data better than what is possible using traditional means; also, the employed methodology facilitates subsequent analyses of the recorded architectural and archaeological features. The Finnish Institute at Athens has annually trained students without previous experience of archaeological documentation in short field courses to use the combined methodology resulting in a growing number of post-graduates familiar with current approaches to documenting architectural remains.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationConstructing Monuments, Perceiving Monumentality and the Economics of Building
Subtitle of host publicationTheoretical and Methodological Approaches to the Built Environment
EditorsAnn Brysbaert, Victor Klinkenberg, Anna Gutiérrez Garcia-M., Irene Vikatou
Place of PublicationLeiden
PublisherSidestone Press
Chapter6
Pages117-140
Number of pages24
ISBN (Electronic)978-90-8890-698-5
ISBN (Print)978-90-8890-697-8, 978-90-8890-696-1
Publication statusPublished - 10 Dec 2018

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