Heritage

19 pages, 2591 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Reflective Evaluation of Current Built-Heritage Management in Hong Kong

by Cheryl Chan, Richard Laing and Cecilia Zecca

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 7064-7082; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120327 - 11 Dec 2024

The development of policy and practice concerning architectural heritage conservation has been a growing subject in Hong Kong, leading to both top-down policies and bottom-up reactions in the community. In times of conflict, there is an opportunity for both the government and the [...] Read more.

The development of policy and practice concerning architectural heritage conservation has been a growing subject in Hong Kong, leading to both top-down policies and bottom-up reactions in the community. In times of conflict, there is an opportunity for both the government and the public to reflect and rediscover their engagement in heritage conservation. This paper evaluates the current policies of Hong Kong’s heritage conservation and the dynamic interactions among stakeholders in the decision-making processes of heritage management. Moreover, it investigates through focus groups, in-depth interviews, and case studies, the impact of the existing architectural and heritage policies, and how the latter correlates with the public’s expectation of heritage conservation and management. The paper finally proposes a more collaborative and inclusive approach where the public’s voice is included in decision-making from the early stages of the process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Heritage)

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14 pages, 1206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Expansion of Regional Museums in Russia: A Quantitative Analysis of Historical Dynamics

by Dmitry A. Ruban and Natalia N. Yashalova

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 7050-7063; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120326 - 11 Dec 2024

Abstract

Museums help to conserve regional heritage and sustain regional identity, which is especially important in large countries. Russian regional museums constitute a whole phenomenon. Indeed, this phenomenon is a large field for research, and it cannot be comprehended by any single study. This [...] Read more.

Museums help to conserve regional heritage and sustain regional identity, which is especially important in large countries. Russian regional museums constitute a whole phenomenon. Indeed, this phenomenon is a large field for research, and it cannot be comprehended by any single study. This is why attention should be paid for its particular aspects such as a historical dynamics of the expansion of regional museums in Russia. The information from the official websites of 76 regional museums sensu stricto of the entire country and 10 smaller museums of the Vologda Region was analyzed to measure the dynamics of their foundation and the relative importance of the different founders. It was established that regional museums were created in the Imperial, Soviet, and Modern periods of the Russian history, and the majority of them appeared in 1861–1935. Governmental founders prevailed, although private and societal initiatives also mattered, especially in the particular time slices. The smaller museums of the Vologda Region were created chiefly in the Soviet period, and both governmental and private initiatives were important. The results of this analysis were interpreted regarding attention to the broad public education and activity of so-called intelligentsia in the late Imperial and Soviet periods. It is hypothesized that the regional museum foundation can be brought in correspondent to the idea of a wise state and society development. Importantly, major transformations of the Russian society (particularly, in the beginning of the 20th century) did not interrupt the expansion of regional museums. It is proposed that the existing national network of regional museums itself has a heritage value, which can be important to tourism development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Museum and Heritage)

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19 pages, 3907 KiB

Open AccessReview

Review of Geomatics Solutions for Protecting Cultural Heritage in Response to Climate Change

by Vincenzo Barrile, Caterina Gattuso and Emanuela Genovese

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 7031-7049; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120325 - 11 Dec 2024

Abstract

In the context of an increasing risk to cultural heritage due to climate change, this review explores and analyzes different geomatics techniques to efficiently monitor and safeguard historical sites and works of art. The rapid succession of technological innovations relating to the production [...] Read more.

In the context of an increasing risk to cultural heritage due to climate change, this review explores and analyzes different geomatics techniques to efficiently monitor and safeguard historical sites and works of art. The rapid succession of technological innovations relating to the production of 3D models and the growth in recent years of the risks to which monumental heritage is exposed poses an all-round reflection on the prospects for the development and refinement of the disciplines of geomatics. The results highlight that geomatics techniques certainly improve data collection and the assessment of risks associated with climate change, also supporting geospatial-based decisions aimed at managing vulnerable cultural sites. The field of digital goods represents, in fact, one of the sectors where it is not possible to centralize knowledge in a single figure, instead postulating a synergistic interaction between different knowledge and techniques. Referring to the national framework, the distinction between protection and enhancement also involves us for both aspects, combining the more consolidated use of digital heritage for cognitive purposes and for the preparation of restoration projects. The study concludes by exploring possible future directions, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and the creation of effective guidelines and policies for the preservation of cultural heritage. Finally, the growing interest in this field in artificial intelligence and, in particular, machine learning is underscored. Full article

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33 pages, 12166 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dual Approach to Large-Scale Seismic Vulnerability Assessment of Churches Through Representative Archetypes

by Giorgia Cianchino, Maria Giovanna Masciotta, Gianfranco De Matteis and Giuseppe Brando

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6998-7030; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120324 - 10 Dec 2024

Abstract

In this paper, the seismic vulnerability of churches is assessed using different methods characterized by different levels of complexity depending on the accuracy of the results to be achieved. Specifically, we compare the two main types of methodologies applied in the literature, namely, [...] Read more.

In this paper, the seismic vulnerability of churches is assessed using different methods characterized by different levels of complexity depending on the accuracy of the results to be achieved. Specifically, we compare the two main types of methodologies applied in the literature, namely, empirical and analytical methods. Empirical methods assess seismic vulnerability based on engineering judgements. In this study, these evaluations were carried out through an automatic tool, the MACHRO form, which was introduced in the past by the authors with the purpose of making evaluations as objective as possible. Analytical methods evaluate the vulnerability of a stock of churches through linear and nonlinear kinematic analyses performed for the most vulnerable macro-elements, which are treated by means of mechanical models. When the number of churches in the stock is huge, this type of evaluation might prove unfeasible. For this reason, churches are grouped into a manageable number of archetypes in order to be analyzed. The above-described methodologies were applied to a relevant number of churches, aiming to appraise discrepancies in terms of results and highlight advantages and drawbacks of their application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Analysis and Preservation Strategies of Architectural Heritage)

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17 pages, 1652 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Fistful of Mars Exploring the Role of Martian Meteorites in Cultural Heritage and Scientific Inquiry

by Annarita Franza, Xhonatan Shehaj and Giovanni Pratesi

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6981-6997; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120323 - 10 Dec 2024

Abstract

Meteorites have intrigued humanity for centuries, representing our enduring pursuit of knowledge and exploration of the cosmos’ enigmas. These celestial objects have not only influenced artistic expression and the formation of myths but have also fostered scientific inquiry. In this regard, meteorites are [...] Read more.

Meteorites have intrigued humanity for centuries, representing our enduring pursuit of knowledge and exploration of the cosmos’ enigmas. These celestial objects have not only influenced artistic expression and the formation of myths but have also fostered scientific inquiry. In this regard, meteorites are crucial to space research, offering valuable information about the early solar system, the formation of planets, and the development of organic compounds. Their analysis aids in deciphering cosmic processes and identifying resources that may support future space missions, making them essential for advancing planetary sciences. Meteorites are also cultural heritage items, with most known samples preserved in natural history museums. This paper deals with the Martian meteorites collected to date, focusing on NWA 16788, the largest individual Martian meteorite recovered so far. Full article

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15 pages, 9921 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Toward to Combination of GIS-HBIM Models for Multiscale Representation and Management of Historic Center

by Massimiliano Pepe, Donato Palumbo, Ahmed Kamal Hamed Dewedar and Enrico Spacone

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6966-6980; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120322 - 10 Dec 2024

Abstract

The aim of this work is to identify a suitable methodology capable of integrating multiscale spatial information about an historic center drawn from a Geographic Information System (GIS) and Historical Building Information Modeling (HBIM). The method is based on a multiscale development system [...] Read more.

The aim of this work is to identify a suitable methodology capable of integrating multiscale spatial information about an historic center drawn from a Geographic Information System (GIS) and Historical Building Information Modeling (HBIM). The method is based on a multiscale development system that can efficiently handle different types of geospatial information by exploring geomatic techniques and software for semantic and parametric modeling. Our case study of the historic center of Popoli (Italy) shows the quality of the proposed model and HGIS-BIM integration for building geometric models rich in semantic and parametric information, taking into account development at different levels of detail. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Information Modelling (BIM), Digital Twins and 3D Web Exploration for the Management, Enjoyment and Conservation of Cultural Heritage)

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28 pages, 7951 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Semantic Enrichment of Architectural Heritage Point Clouds Using Artificial Intelligence: The Palacio de Sástago in Zaragoza, Spain

by Michele Buldo, Luis Agustín-Hernández and Cesare Verdoscia

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6938-6965; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120321 - 9 Dec 2024

Abstract

In the current landscape dominated by Artificial Intelligence, the integration of Machine Learning and Deep Learning within the realm of Cultural Heritage, particularly within architectural contexts, is paramount for the efficient processing and interpretation of point clouds. These advanced methods facilitate automated segmentation [...] Read more.

In the current landscape dominated by Artificial Intelligence, the integration of Machine Learning and Deep Learning within the realm of Cultural Heritage, particularly within architectural contexts, is paramount for the efficient processing and interpretation of point clouds. These advanced methods facilitate automated segmentation and classification, significantly improving both the clarity and practical use of data acquired from laser scanning and photogrammetry. The present study investigates the Palacio de Sástago—a prominent Renaissance palace in Zaragoza, Spain—and introduces a cutting-edge modus operandi for the automated recognition of architectural elements within the palace’s inner courtyard. Employing the well-established Random Forest algorithm, implemented in a Python environment, the framework begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the geometric features identified in the LiDAR point cloud. This process employs the Mean Decrease in Impurity metric to evaluate the relevance of each variable. To boost the accuracy and efficiency of the final classifications, the features are refined post-assessment, enhancing both the training phase and the algorithm’s later evaluation. The research’s findings demonstrate significant potential, supporting advancements in CAD systems and HBIM that will enable more precise, automated modelling of architectural elements, thereby enhancing the accuracy of digital reconstructions and improving conservation planning for heritage sites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Architectural Heritage)

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22 pages, 5429 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermal Behavior of a Historic Building Housing Books Across Past and Future Climate Scenarios

by Gianluca Cadelano, Alessandro Bortolin, Antonio della Valle, Giovanni Ferrarini, Paola Cattaneo, Fabio Peron and Giuseppe Emmi

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6916-6937; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120320 - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Climate change poses significant challenges for the renovation of historic buildings, requiring a careful balance between preservation and energy efficiency, particularly considering the forecasted rise in temperatures. This study focuses on a medieval building undergoing renovation, examining thermal behaviors based on future climate [...] Read more.

Climate change poses significant challenges for the renovation of historic buildings, requiring a careful balance between preservation and energy efficiency, particularly considering the forecasted rise in temperatures. This study focuses on a medieval building undergoing renovation, examining thermal behaviors based on future climate settings, with particular attention to the rooms housing a book collection. Books require controlled microclimatic conditions that must be ensured for their preservation; hence, the energy use for air conditioning control must be considered during the renovation planning phase. Through on-site monitoring of the thermophysical properties of the building envelope and indoor microclimate, along with energy model software simulations, both historic climate and global warming scenarios were evaluated for their potential impact on thermal behavior and consequently on energy consumption. This study aims at contributing to the long-term sustainability and resilience of historic buildings, as well as proposing best practices for planning interventions involving sensitive cultural heritage materials, considering the effects of climate change in the renovation process. The results show strategies to address the climatic changes through a methodology optimizing renovation interventions. The sizing of air conditioning systems coupled with a less stringent microclimate control mitigates energy requirements, in line with the sustainable management approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges to Heritage Conservation under Climate Change)

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25 pages, 3290 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Leveraging Digitized Heritage Technologies for Smart Fruition: Heritage Understanding and Enhancement Framework

by Shaher Rababeh, Rahaf Hanaqtah and Shatha Abu-Khafajah

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6891-6915; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120319 - 7 Dec 2024

Abstract

Digitized heritage is regarded as an emerging field, with existing studies primarily focusing on one case study, technological aspect, or a methodological approach. Thus, there remains a notable gap in the literature regarding the understanding of how these technologies and methodologies can be [...] Read more.

Digitized heritage is regarded as an emerging field, with existing studies primarily focusing on one case study, technological aspect, or a methodological approach. Thus, there remains a notable gap in the literature regarding the understanding of how these technologies and methodologies can be utilized in smart heritage fruition. Approaches that harness technological advancements to enhance the decision-making process regarding the use of appropriate methodology at various heritage sites remain insufficiently explored. To address this gap, this study conducted a cross-case analysis to survey the use of heritage technologies across selected cases to find underlying trends and correlations related to the scale and methodology used. The findings of this study provide insights into the nexus of technology integration into heritage fruition, highlighting the role of tangible heritage documentation technologies. The present study concludes that smart fruition framework necessitates an ongoing process involving the integration of cultural heritage data, digital documentation, management, enhancement methodologies, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The IoT facilitates the connectivity of physical items to the internet thereby supporting the understanding of heritage knowledge. Such framework operates through a collaboration platform that engages experts, local communities, and tourists to ensure a meaningful and interactive interconnection. Full article

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20 pages, 3819 KiB

Open AccessArticle

LCA as a Complementary Tool for the Evaluation of Biocolonization Management: The Case of Palazzo Rocca Costaguta

by Letizia Berti, Francesco Arfelli, Federica Villa, Francesca Cappitelli, Davide Gulotta, Luca Ciacci, Elena Bernardi, Ivano Vassura, Fabrizio Passarini, Salvatore Napoli and Sara Goidanich

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6871-6890; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120318 - 5 Dec 2024

Abstract

The 17th Century Casa a Ponente of Palazzo Rocca Costaguta’s wall provided an opportunity for an evaluation based on a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach of conservation treatments aiming at removing biological colonization from built heritage surfaces. The investigated surfaces were historic plasters [...] Read more.

The 17th Century Casa a Ponente of Palazzo Rocca Costaguta’s wall provided an opportunity for an evaluation based on a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach of conservation treatments aiming at removing biological colonization from built heritage surfaces. The investigated surfaces were historic plasters partially covered by a patchy green patina due to biofilm recolonization soon after a previous biocidal treatment. Areas of the biocolonized wall were treated by conservation professionals according to both conventional and “green” (i.e., exploiting natural active principles) biocidal products, including Preventol RI 50 (active substance benzalkonium chloride), Essenzio (active substance essential oregano oil), and hydrogen peroxide. Upon treatment, LCA analysis was conducted to evaluate the environmental impact of the different solutions, including a no-treatment option. LCA analysis was based on on-site investigations of the untreated wall surface with and without biofilm and following the biocidal treatment. The conservation treatment’s impact on the mineral substrate was based on digital microscopy, colorimetry, and water contact angle measurements via an innovative portable method. The results highlighted the impacts of the different biocidal treatments, which, in some cases, have not completely removed the biofilm and, in some cases, have altered the surface properties of the plaster. This pointed out the opportunity to re-think conservation strategy, including LCA analysis as a complementary tool to assess the environmental impact of the different conservation treatments and procedures. Full article

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14 pages, 5701 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Color of Small Ochre Fragments from the Upper Paleolithic Sites Kapova Cave and Kamennaya Balka II (Russia): Combining Visual Color Identification and Cluster Analysis

by Yulia Anisovets, Vladislav Zhitenev, Ekaterina Vinogradova and Mikhail Statkus

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6857-6870; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120317 - 5 Dec 2024

Abstract

A technique for characterizing the color of small ochre samples was proposed. The technique includes visual color determination with the aid of a stereomicroscope and a Munsell Soil Color Chart, conversion of Munsell values to CIE L*a*b* coordinates, cluster analysis, and principle component [...] Read more.

A technique for characterizing the color of small ochre samples was proposed. The technique includes visual color determination with the aid of a stereomicroscope and a Munsell Soil Color Chart, conversion of Munsell values to CIE L*a*b* coordinates, cluster analysis, and principle component analysis (PCA). The technique was applied to ochre samples from the Kapova Cave and Kamennaya Balka II Upper Paleolithic sites. Characterization of the color of a statistically significant number of pigment samples makes it possible to identify the relationships between different structural features of the cultural layer and reliably identify a wide range of artistic practices in parietal caves in addition to the actual creation of drawings, and it also possibly serves as a chronological marker at multi-layered sites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Archaeological Heritage)

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33 pages, 14604 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Heritage-Inspired Strategies in Interior Design: Balancing Critical Regionalism and Reflexive Modernism for Identity Preservation

by Wael Rashdan and Ayman Fathy Ashour

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6825-6856; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120316 - 4 Dec 2024

Abstract

Globalization’s impact on design has raised concerns about the erosion of local cultural identities, particularly in interior design. This study examines the preservation of cultural identity in interior design amidst the homogenizing forces of globalization, emphasizing heritage-inspired critical regionalism and reflexive modernism. A [...] Read more.

Globalization’s impact on design has raised concerns about the erosion of local cultural identities, particularly in interior design. This study examines the preservation of cultural identity in interior design amidst the homogenizing forces of globalization, emphasizing heritage-inspired critical regionalism and reflexive modernism. A literature review addresses the interconnected themes of globalization, design identity, reflexive modernism, and critical regionalism forming the theoretical foundation of this research. Through a qualitative systematic review, three core strategies are identified as essential for preserving local identity: Historical Revival, Eclectic Historicism, and Free Historicism. These strategies offer innovative approaches to integrating heritage elements within contemporary interiors, balancing cultural preservation with modern functionality. Selected case studies illustrate the successful application of these strategies in interior projects, underscoring their significance in maintaining cultural identity and advancing material heritage research. This study contributes to the state of research by synthesizing and contextualizing these strategies within the discourse on interior design, providing actionable insights for professionals navigating global trends. Full article

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19 pages, 19758 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Archaeometric Research of Boian Pottery Decoration from the Settlement of Hârșova-Tell

by Dragos-Viorel Brezoi, Adrian Iordache, Anca Irina Gheboianu, Ana Ilie and Sofia Slămnoiu-Teodorescu

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6806-6824; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120315 - 4 Dec 2024

Abstract

This paper presents the results of archaeometric research on the white and red materials used to decorate some ceramic vessels belonging to the Boian culture, the Vidra and Spanţov phases from the 5th millennium BC, discovered at Hârşova-Tell, on the right bank of [...] Read more.

This paper presents the results of archaeometric research on the white and red materials used to decorate some ceramic vessels belonging to the Boian culture, the Vidra and Spanţov phases from the 5th millennium BC, discovered at Hârşova-Tell, on the right bank of the Danube, Romania. Digital microscopy, wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used to identify the morphology, the crystalline phases, chemical formula, and percentage content of each crystalline phase in the white decoration materials and what type of pigment was used to prepare the red paint. The results obtained reveal that the white decorating material in the pottery is mostly made of calcite. It was added after the pottery was fired. Sometimes, powders from burnt bones were also used. The red pigment is hematite. The work contributes to the completion of a puzzle related to the artistic vision of the members of the Boian communities in decorating ceramics with culture-specific motifs, preserving the pattern, and adapting to the local natural resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Archaeological Heritage)

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16 pages, 12784 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Farmhouses in the Mid-Adriatic: From Architectural Artifacts to Devices for the Landscape Development

by Sara Cipolletti

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6791-6805; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120314 - 3 Dec 2024

Abstract

Rural settlement in Central Italy represents one of the most original heritages for understanding the link between architectural principles and the environmental, economic, and social aspects of the cultivated land. The scattered farmhouses are the basis of a particular land management strategy, the [...] Read more.

Rural settlement in Central Italy represents one of the most original heritages for understanding the link between architectural principles and the environmental, economic, and social aspects of the cultivated land. The scattered farmhouses are the basis of a particular land management strategy, the Mezzadria (sharecropping), a contract between a landowner and a farmer. The structure of the architecture is always the same, with slight variations, and is characterized by an external staircase that is the prevailing distinctive element. However, the isolated buildings developed a complex system of relations in the territory, a cultural landscape process made up of physical and visual connections. This paper investigates the rural architecture of Central Italy, particularly in the mid-Adriatic area of southern Marche, renewing the knowledge of this peculiar heritage. The exploratory method considers different scales and is based both on the interpretation of hilly geography and on architectonic comparison between artifacts. Ruins in situ visual exploration, valuation of historical maps, and transcription of signs elaborated in drawings and photographs allow us for better identification of the open space relations and building characters. It is concluded that farmhouses are not only architectural objects with ‘honest functional logic’ but real devices for the creation of the hillside landscape, so they need broad investigations that start from solid scientific references to direct future trajectories. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conservation of Vernacular Heritage: Materials, Techniques and Project Management)

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19 pages, 5958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Duralumin Alloys in World War II Heritage Aircraft: Correlations Between Manufacturing Parameters and Alloys’ Properties

by Agathe Duclos, Elena Bernardi, Luc Robbiola, Christophe Deshayes, Luiza de Souza Machado, Carla Martini, Cristina Chiavari, Andrea Balbo, Cesar Escobar, Elodie Guilminot, Benoît Malard and Magali Brunet

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6772-6790; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120313 - 28 Nov 2024

Abstract

Duralumin-type alloys have been employed for structural and non-structural parts of aircraft since the early 1920s up to now. In the European project “PROtection and Conservation of Heritage AirCRAFT” (PROCRAFT), up to 34 aircraft wrecks from World War II from different nations (United [...] Read more.

Duralumin-type alloys have been employed for structural and non-structural parts of aircraft since the early 1920s up to now. In the European project “PROtection and Conservation of Heritage AirCRAFT” (PROCRAFT), up to 34 aircraft wrecks from World War II from different nations (United States of America, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy) were identified. On most of them, the collection of numerous fragments was possible, thus constituting a large sampling group. A metallographic analysis was carried out, and elemental composition, microstructure and hardness were measured. This article focuses firstly on the elemental composition of this group of historical Al alloys. From these data, some fine characteristics specific to the manufacturing countries will be investigated through principal component analysis. Then, on a restricted group constituted of German alloys, we will discuss how some manufacturing parameters, such as micro-alloying and thermo-mechanical treatments, influence the mechanical properties of the assessed aircraft components. Other influencing parameters, linked to the archaeological nature of the parts, are considered and addressed based on a specific study of an alloy collected on a crashed JU88 aircraft originating from the German company Junkers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conservation and Restoration of Metal Artifacts)

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23 pages, 6348 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Single Acoustic Quantity Index as Part of an Early-Stage Digitalized Procedure for the Restoration of Baroque Theatres to Be Used as Multipurpose Spaces

by Maria Cairoli and Gino Iannace

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6749-6771; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120312 - 28 Nov 2024

Abstract

Historic theatres with a horseshoe shape, the so-called baroque theatres, constitute an architectural heritage and are of enormous importance. For these reasons, this paper aimed to identify a single acoustic quantity index as part of an early-stage digitalized procedure to improve the management [...] Read more.

Historic theatres with a horseshoe shape, the so-called baroque theatres, constitute an architectural heritage and are of enormous importance. For these reasons, this paper aimed to identify a single acoustic quantity index as part of an early-stage digitalized procedure to improve the management of the complexity of their restoration process, both better preserving the original room acoustic field and making it variable for new different uses of the theatre space. The procedure introduces technical policies and design tools in a BIM execution plan (BEP) and is supported by a digitalization that inserts the restoration of theatres into industry 4.0. This choice was taken according to the new design goals and the new Procurement Code Directives, which underlie the use of digital technologies in this context. The described acoustic single number quantity, called a “multipurpose index”, summarizes the main room acoustic goals for when a baroque theatre is used as a multipurpose space after renovation, specifying and better controlling the requested room acoustic quality for people other than acoustics specialists, such as theater directors, and more generally for the management. As an example of this possible transition, the case study of “Teatro Ristori” is presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Acoustical Heritage: Characteristics and Preservation)

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20 pages, 18853 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Indexes for Estimating Outdoor and Indoor Microclimates: A Case Study at the San Panfilo Church in Tornimparte, Italy

by Eleonora Racca, Davide Bertoni and Silvia Ferrarese

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6729-6748; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120311 - 28 Nov 2024

Abstract

In this work, we consider the indoor and outdoor microclimatic conditions and the influence of the building on their relationship. Microclimatic indexes are a useful tool to characterize microclimatic environments, and they can be used to compare indoor and outdoor microclimate conditions and [...] Read more.

In this work, we consider the indoor and outdoor microclimatic conditions and the influence of the building on their relationship. Microclimatic indexes are a useful tool to characterize microclimatic environments, and they can be used to compare indoor and outdoor microclimate conditions and to evaluate the influence of the building itself on the microclimate. The case study refers to the ancient building of San Panfilo church in Tornimparte (Italy), preserving an important cycle of frescoes by depicted by Saturnino Gatti from 1491 to 1494. The microclimatic conditions were measured during a dedicated campaign at several sites in the church and two sites outside: one in a near-building position and one in an open-air site. In order to characterize the indoor and outdoor microclimatic conditions, some statistical indexes were applied. The results show the comparison in microclimatic conditions in the different sites in the church and between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing for the detection of the influence of the building in the microclimatic conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microclimate in Heritage)

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17 pages, 8463 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Changing the Beam of an Ancient Ship’s Hull on Its Capacity, Stability, and Performance

by Smiljko Rudan, Irena Radić Rossi, Grgo Jerat, Albert Zamarin, Šimun Sviličić and Alice Lucchini

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6712-6728; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120310 - 27 Nov 2024

Abstract

Wooden ships on the shipwreck sites are usually only partially preserved, and reconstructing the original hull lines requires considerable effort. The shape of the hull has a direct effect on the ship’s capacity to carry cargo, as well as on its speed and [...] Read more.

Wooden ships on the shipwreck sites are usually only partially preserved, and reconstructing the original hull lines requires considerable effort. The shape of the hull has a direct effect on the ship’s capacity to carry cargo, as well as on its speed and stability. When reconstructing the hull lines, the incomplete nature of the archaeological remains results in the interpretation of the available data. The outcome, therefore, depends on the assumptions and decisions associated with the reconstruction process. This paper examines how the variation in a single parameter, namely, the beam, affects the performance of the vessel. Considering the availability of the model, the Kyrenia ship from the fourth/third century BC is used as a case study. The scope of this paper is to demonstrate and quantify the effect of beam variation on ancient ship performance, namely, the ship cargo capacity, stability, and resistance. Kyrenia ship was used as a study case based on hull lines proposed by Steffy in 1985. The aim is not to modify Steffy’s original reconstruction but to demonstrate that small deviations could significantly affect the performance of the vessel. In addition, an increase in the height of the ship’s sides is proposed as a possible solution to increase the load capacity of the ship. The opportunity to explore a whole set of trials and reconstructive variations with naval engineering software can deepen our understanding of ship performance, allowing us to improve our approach to reconstruction, too. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State of the Art in Underwater Cultural Heritage: Policies in the Era of Blue Economy and Incorporation into Maritime Spatial Planning)

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29 pages, 12940 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Threshold Spaces: The Transitional Spaces Between Outside and Inside in Traditional Indian Dwellings

by Julia Nerantzia Tzortzi and Ishita Saxena

Heritage 2024, 7(12), 6683-6711; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage7120309 - 27 Nov 2024

Abstract

This research paper examines threshold spaces in traditional housing within historic Indian cities, emphasizing how these transitional areas are shaped by cultural, social, and environmental influences. It underscores that thresholds function beyond mere physical divisions between interior and exterior; they are intricate spatial [...] Read more.

This research paper examines threshold spaces in traditional housing within historic Indian cities, emphasizing how these transitional areas are shaped by cultural, social, and environmental influences. It underscores that thresholds function beyond mere physical divisions between interior and exterior; they are intricate spatial elements that engage the senses and perception. Key findings include the following: (a) Historical evolution: traditional dwellings display layers of history, shaped by cultural, economic, and climatic factors. (b) Character and morphology: this paper explores the qualities and structures of threshold spaces, analyzing features such as transparency, material choice, hierarchy, and enclosure. (c) Social significance: thresholds play essential roles, supporting a variety of activities, providing shelter, defining boundaries, enhancing community interaction and security, and contributing to residents’ identities. (d) Design implications: insights from this study suggest that a deeper understanding of these spaces can enhance design strategies for transitional areas in housing, highlighting their functional and socio-cultural value. The study adopts a structured comparative analysis of six case studies, evaluated at four scales—township, neighborhood, dwelling, and threshold—focusing on spatial parameters including design, function, definition, structure, and sequence. Overall, this paper highlights the critical role of threshold spaces in architecture and urban design, demonstrating their potential to enhance social interaction, define spatial relationships, and reflect cultural significance in contemporary design practices. Full article

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