The documentation of Aachen Cathedral: integrated approaches for digital preservation using terrestrial laser scanning and photogrammetry.

Pritchard, Douglas

Abstract

The digital documentation of Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site of extraordinary historical significance, was achieved through the integration of advanced techniques (terrestrial laser scanning, terrestrial photogrammetry, and UAV-based photogrammetry). This approach enabled the creation of 3D models accurately representing the site's morphological and architectural characteristics. The workflow, developed over multiple campaigns, facilitated the collection of both exterior and interior data, their registration, and a complex post-production phase using advanced tools for data segmentation and optimization. Despite challenges related to managing large datasets and limited software interoperability, the results highlight the ability of modern technologies to provide powerful tools for digital preservation. The high precision and versatility of the research outputs make them indispensable for future interdisciplinary studies, relevant both to documentation and site management.

Citation

PRITCHARD, D. 2025. The documentation of Aachen Cathedral: integrated approaches for digital preservation using terrestrial laser scanning and photogrammetry. Disegnare idee immagini/Drawing ideas images [online], 35(68), pages 20-37. Available from: https://doi.org/10.61020/11239247-202468-04

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: May 29, 2025
• Online Publication Date: May 29, 2025
• Publication Date: Jun 30, 2024
• Deposit Date: May 29, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 27, 2025
• Journal: Disegnare idee immagini/Drawing ideas images
• Print ISSN: 1123-9247
• Electronic ISSN: 2704-7105
• Publisher: Gangemi Editore International
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 35
• Issue: 68
• Pages: 20-37
• ISBN: 9788849252804
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.61020/11239247-202468-04
• Keywords: Cultural heritage; Digital doxumentation; 3D models; Conservation; Data interoperability
• Public URL: https://rgu-repository.worktribe.com/output/2849229