An Example-Based Introduction into Building Archaeology

Abstract

An introduction to the scope, methodology, theoretical and practical developments of Building Archaeology (historische Bauforschung) based on a large-scale ongoing project conducted by the institute IDB under the project lead of the lecturer himself.

Objective

Introduce students to the current methodology and scope of Building Archaeology.

Content

This lecture will introduce students to the scope and methodology of Building Archaeology (historische Bauforschung). It will be given by the project leader of the ongoing project "Building history of the Basilica of St Anthony, Padua". Based on that project as a case study, but including other examples, the lecture will show how to formulate hypotheses in a BA project, how to develop a strategy of investigation, how to proceed methodologically and technologically. The course will cover surveying methods like laser scanning and 3D modeling (e.g. 3D printing, BIM for heritage), terrestrial and drone-based photogrammetry (structure from motion) and thermal imaging, as well as dating techniques like radiocarbon (14C), dendrochronology, mensiochronology (dating by statistical evaluation of brick sizes) and archival research. It will present the main project in parallel to the ongoing investigations, giving the students a unique opportunity to participate in the strategy, progress and preliminary results of an actual research project. Furthermore, the stage will be opened for an outlook on other projects, hence providing a broad overview of the field of BA and its recent developments. As the monument considered contains important historical structures from the 13th to the 18th centuries, this lecture will also offer a practical insight into Construction History.

Resources