3D model, linked database, and born-digital E-Book: An ideal approach to archaeological research and publication

Abstract

The objective of the Oplontis Project is to study and publish two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Villa A and Villa B at Torre Annunziata, Italy, buried by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 CE. Faced with the high costs of traditional print publication, the Project has opted for a born-digital publication. An additional publication consists of a navigable 3D model linked to a database in order to provide the fullest possible documentation both of the actual states of these Villas and proposals for their reconstructions. This article presents several of these reconstructions, highlighting the importance of digital technologies, including laser scanning and 3D modeling, for research and long-term preservation of these cultural artifacts.