Parametric Methods in Reconstruction of the Medieval Proto-Town in Pultusk, Poland

Abstract

This paper describes methods, processes and the outcome of the reconstruction in the medieval wooden settlement complex in Pultusk, Poland. It is the result of the interdisciplinary cooperation between architects from Warsaw University of Technology and archaeologists from Regional Museum of Pultusk. They have undertaken the research issues of information exchange and knowledge-building processes in the digital environment. Main issues were related to the methods of computer reconstruction in architectural and urban scale, which enable alternative narrative threads. To achieve this, parametric techniques were adopted and the Pultusk Recontructor' application was developed in Grasshopper. The interaction between architects and archaeologists over hypotheses and alternatives was supported in urban scale by 'Rapid Reconstruction Modular Model'. This 3D printed urban model, consist of segments which can be simultaneously exchanged. It became not only a substrate for scientific debate, but also may serve an education role for the permanent Museum exhibition.