Stratigraphy and analysis of interfaces for the preservation of architectural heritage

Abstract

The study contributes to the recognition of the central role of the interface in a restoration project. In fact, boundaries, joints and connections represent the key factor for understanding and interpreting the chronological sequence of the construction in a historical monument and they are the place where the contact of different entities can engender problems of connection and transmission, as well as material, chemical-physical, aesthetic or related to technological compatibility (structural, thermic and hygrometric). In the planning stage, they also intervene decisively in the principles of feasibility such as distinctness, reversibility, current expression and sustainability, which form the theoretical basis of the discipline. One particular case of interface is the one generated by erosion. The text presents the case of erosion of the urban walls of Cagliari, where the phenomenon has been faced by the creation of interesting integration interfaces in the course of time. Particularly, in the case of the 'Porta di Altamira', a scale of the degrees of erosion, useful for the planning of possible units of integration, has been studied. Based on the case study and the theoretical principles of the discipline, the research suggests the stratigraphic process as a standard methodology and operating criterion for the preservation and the restoration of interfaces and for the integration of gaps.

Geomatics and Archaeometric Investigations for the Sustainable Reuse of Ruins. The Santa Chiara Convent Ruin in Cagliari (Sardinia)

“…Considered the reading complexity of this ruined structure and the scarce presence of archival sources as well as the consequent problems concerning its reuse, the integrated protocol of analysis (Fiorino, 2015) has been divided in four interoperable phases. First, the ruin was carefully explored through an accurate survey protocol.…”

Interdisciplinary contribution to the protection plan of the fortified old town of cagliari (italy)

“…Furthermore, the plan recommends maintenance and structural consolidation of the military architectures, the modelling of historic scarps with techniques used by historical military engineers (avoiding concrete structures), the reopening of the ancient walkways, etc. Integrations are also allowed with strict adherence to the modern criteria of restoration: minimal intervention, material compatibility, distinctness, reversibility and modern architectural language [7]. The second level refers to areas where material monumental evidences are no more evident, even if there is a serious risk of underground archaeological remains.…”

Investigation protocols for dating defence architecture

“…A final aspect concerns the interfaces [19], which refer to the physical locations (points, areas or surfaces) in which two qualitatively different entities (Su) come into contact, causing problems regarding connection, transmission, material compatibility, chemical/physical nature, aesthetic and shape or technological nature (structural, thermal, hygrometric). The interface demonstrates a discontinuity in the materials and is therefore a significant element in the chronological reconstruction of the artefacts.…”