The Integrated Survey of Narrow Spaces and Underground Architecture: the Case Study of Campana Caves Bas-Reliefs

Abstract. Italian Cultural Heritage is rich in fascinating Underground Heritage (UH) to be protected and preserved because of its fragility and historical importance. An accurate and high-resolution 3D model is essential to reach an appropriate level of knowledge to safeguard caves but there are several obstacles to face. Underground data acquisition and following elaborations are problematic due to environmental conditions such as lack of homogeneous light sources, highly absorbing and unstable surfaces, narrow spaces and complex geometry. For these reasons, the integration of different techniques is mandatory to achieve a valid final product that could be an important basis for consolidation, preservation and valorization of the UH. In this paper, an integrated survey method is tested for a realistic digital reconstruction of hypogeal spaces. In addition to outputs for experts of conservation, the creation of multimedia products for a wider audience of non-professionals users is investigated as a way to preserve UH from decay. Thanks to VR, visitors virtually walk through the underground galleries observing and interacting, making accessible also fragile environments with forbidden access due to preservation policies.