VFF: Visualizing digital data in Archaeology: Vulci and the Trajan's Forum Puzzle projects

In June-July 2016, the Duke University Dig@Lab (Digital Archaeology Laboratory) started a new excavation in the Etruscan site of Vulci. As a part of a multidisciplinary project of archaeological research, on field activities involve using advanced digital technologies (predictive modeling, aerial survey and geophysical prospections). The initial excavation trench was defined by a small area (15 × 25 m), where the presence of a large stone building was previously revealed by the geophysical survey. Ground penetrating radar in this area hypothesized over 2 m of thickness of the archaeological deposit, showing the foundations of several buildings. As a key part of the project, the Dig@Lab team is developing a webGIS platform for the visualization of large amounts of data. Single context units documentation was conducted through photogrammetry-based 3D recording.

The second part of the presentation will focus on the Trajan's Forum Puzzle project. A number of fragments coming from the Basilica Ulpia in Rome, were digitized and virtually restored in their original architectural context. As a part of an exhibit on emperor Trajan, the project includes the production of holographic prints, 3D-printed replicas and a scale mock-up of the Basilica.