The Project of Parco Archeologico Del Colosseo and the Italian Network of Archaeological Parks: From Satellite Monitoring to Conservation and Preventive Maintenance Policies

Abstract

The monitoring projectof the Parco archeologico del Colosseo was inspired by the need to build up a system of protection and conservation, based on the principles of a sustainable exploitation. Within this framework, the Park has launched a static and dynamic monitoring project consisting of five fundamental levels of activities: (i) a database of all the historical data of the monuments, together with the existing graphic and photographic documentation (namely digital documentation archive); (ii) visual monitoring carried out by teams of technicians dedicated to the inspection and control of monuments, also thanks to dedicated app that will allow to send data to the central system; (iii) satellite monitoring (historical analysis of the satellite data) going directly into the system and analysed in order to monitor possible ground deformation; (iv) in situ monitoring from traditional geotechnical instruments; (v) experimental activities, such as the use of H-BIM in the archaeological field, aimed at monitoring by diagnostic instruments. Basically, the project involves the creation of a multi-parameter system of permanent control of the entire archaeological area, with the associated indicators of the level of risk, based on the combined use of innovative technologies. The proposed new paradigm for the monitoring (combining satellite monitoring, downstream services and in situ calibration data), will be proposed also at national level through the implementation of the Italian Network of Archaeological Parks (INAP). Some examples of satellite monitoring application will be presented and illustrated in order to stress the roles of new EO technologies in the field of conservation and maintenance polices.