Digitalization and analysis of fragile and inaccessible architectural heritage: the case study of Masseria del Cristo in Matera, Italy

Digital 3D survey and modelling technologies allow to acquire easily and quickly high quality information, which together with traditional research techniques help to provide a very precise picture of Architectural Heritage and to catalogue its typologies, techniques and construction materials. These technologies are also useful for effectively disseminating the obtained results through consultation of 3D models available online useful for scholars, technicians and other users. The use of remote and “non-invasive” detection techniques can be applied for the protection of the Architectural Heritage at risk of disappearing and especially for inaccessible sites. The rural landscape of Matera preserves precious abandoned artifacts that are in critical conservation status. For these reasons their documentation and timely recovery are indispensable before an irreparable disappearance. The historical farmhouse known as Masseria del Cristo, which today is in a state of ruin, is an effective test bench for the proposed methodology. The study made it possible to understand the evolutionary phases of the case study through careful literature and archival searches on the topic. The case study was carried out with a UAV digital survey to elaborate a 3D digital model through Structure From Motion (SFM) processes, which formed the basis for an analysis of traditional materials and construction technologies. All the information acquired through the methodological steps has been merged into the model, in order to quickly and easily disseminate the acquired information through an existing web platform.