Search Results (94)

This essay advances a theological reappraisal of Impressionist painting as a modern mode of sacramental perception capable of renewing the contemplative imagination within a disenchanted West. While recent scholarship has interpreted Impressionism as a limit case of aesthetic immanence, reducing vision to light, temporality, and surface, this study argues that such immanence is not closed. Drawing on Aidan Nichols’s distinction between art made for the liturgy and art tutored by it and informed by David Fagerberg’s account of liturgy as the right ordering of reality itself, the argument proposes that Impressionist form can be evaluated according to precise theological criteria. Sustained ekphrastic analysis of Monet’s Portal of Rouen Cathedral in Morning Light (1894), Cézanne’s Mont Sainte-Victoire (c. 1902–1904), and Messiaen’s Louange à l’Immortalité de Jésus (1941) is brought into conversation with Jean-Luc Marion’s phenomenology of givenness, Pavel Florensky’s theology of perspective, and Augustine’s account of distentio animi. Read in this light, Impressionism emerges not as indifference to the sacred, but as a discipline of attention that disposes artist and perceiver toward participation in a liturgical reality already given in creation: a modern praeparatio evangelica whose formal achievements, though historically bounded, remain theologically available. The argument does not presume that Impressionist form is theological in intention, but that, when attended to with sufficient formal discipline, it may be recognized as consonant with theological accounts of perception. Full article

Syphilis, caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, has a complex evolutionary history, most likely being transferred from the Americas to Europe after the 15th century and subsequently spreading widely through sexual transmission. This work is one of the few studies on the skeletal evidence of probable treponematosis in archaeological populations discovered on the Romanian territory, providing data to better understand the disease history. Pathological lesions identified in three human skeletons of the 15th–19th centuries are described, and a diagnosis of treponematosis is performed. The three analyzed skeletons were discovered during the archaeological excavations in the necropolis of the Roman-Catholic Cathedral in Iasi City (Romania). The investigated skeletons belonged to individuals aged 30–40 years old (two females and one male). Somatoscopic, radiographic, tomographic, and microscopic examinations were used for the differential diagnosis. The results of multiple investigation methods support the diagnosis of probable treponematosis in all three skeletons, showing different stages of caries sicca in skull bones, cortical thickening, and new periosteal bone formation in postcranial bones. Full article

This study examines the influence of the bishop’s and canons’ knowledge on the design of the presbytery’s keystones in Tortosa Cathedral, which has been governed by the Beati Augustini rule since 1155. The iconography representing the Coronation of the Virgin (1439) constitutes a recurring theme in medieval architecture and is closely linked to references found in manuscript illumination starting from the late 12th century. The presence of thirty-two works by Augustine of Hippo in the Cathedral’s Chapter Archives allows for a comparative methodology between the iconographic analysis of the Coronation of the Virgin and the study of the liturgical space through Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS). It is concluded that the metrology of the keystone is established based on the symbolic numbers 10 and 100 from the De Civitate Dei codices, and the number 150 from Augustine of Hippo’s De Supra Psalterium. Alongside this Augustinian foundation, both the iconography and the act of setting the keystone are enriched by the numerous codices related to the Summa Aurea by Jacobus de Voragine. Full article

Conservation of historic buildings has long relied on traditional, reactive methods that address deterioration only after it occurs, often leading to irreversible damage. This study introduces an innovative approach that integrates Digital Twin (DT) technology with advanced machine learning algorithms to enable predictive and data-driven conservation. Focusing on Nottingham Cathedral, a Grade II listed Gothic Revival building, this research developed a 3D Historic Building Information Model (HBIM) enhanced with real-time environmental monitoring of temperature, humidity, and air quality. The collected data were analysed using MATLABR2024a to train and evaluate several predictive algorithms, including Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), Backpropagation Neural Network (BPNN), Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), and Nonlinear Autoregressive Exogenous (NARX) models. The NARX model achieved the highest accuracy (Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) = 0.19) in forecasting indoor environmental conditions. Findings indicate that maintaining an indoor temperature increase of 4–6 °C can effectively reduce relative humidity below 60%, minimising deterioration risks. The study demonstrates how integrating DT and machine learning offers a proactive framework for environmental optimisation and long-term preservation of heritage assets, moving conservation practice from reactive restoration toward predictive conservation. Full article

In recent years, digital technologies have become increasingly prevalent in the field of heritage protection. In addition to geomatic techniques like laser scanning (LiDAR) and Structure-from-Motion (SfM), geophysical methods, especially Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), offer added value for investigating protected buildings and objects. Additionally, chemical analysis (e.g., X-ray fluorescence, XRF) and mineral magnetic methods can be utilized to investigate specific research topics. All these methods are completely non-invasive and leave the heritage site untouched. Furthermore, they are cost-efficient and fast to use. Within this paper, we want to present an integrated study of a medieval sarcophagus in Bamberg Cathedral. The geophysical surveys via GPR and magnetic susceptibility (MS) measurements should answer open questions regarding the construction and internal layout of the sandstone sarcophagus, dated to the Early or High Middle Ages. The susceptibility data indicated an inner lead coffin in the lower part behind the stone slabs due to an unusual diamagnetic response in these parts. In contrast, the GPR data gave no such indication and revealed that the interior is too small for a direct burial of the bishop. Hence, an additional XRF survey was conducted to help solve this contradiction. The latter data indicate that the lead could be due to remains of a former painting on the sarcophagus with colours containing lead white pigments. Due to the porous sandstone, the moist environmental conditions, and the high weight of the lead elements, these could have accumulated at the bottom of the sarcophagus, creating the diamagnetism detected by the magnetic susceptibility measurements. Full article

This study presents the on-site public evaluation of Notre-Dame Whispers, a geolocated audio-guided tour that explores the sonic history of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. The experience combines binaural reproduction, embodied storytelling, and historically informed soundscapes to immerse visitors in the cathedral’s past auditory environments. Drawing on virtually recreated acoustics, it reconstructs key components of Notre-Dame’s sound heritage, including the medieval construction site, early polyphonic chant, and the contemporary urban soundscape. An on-site evaluation was conducted to assess visitor engagement, usability, and the perceived authenticity of the reconstructed soundscapes. A mixed-methods approach integrated questionnaire responses, semi-structured interviews, and anonymized user analytics collected through the mobile application. Results indicate a high level of immersion, with participants particularly valuing the spatialised audio design and narrative depth. However, challenges were identified regarding GPS-based triggering reliability and the difficulty of situational interpretation in complex spatial environments. These findings offer insights into public reception of immersive heritage audio experiences and inform future developments in digital cultural mediation. Full article

While the Seokguram Grotto is celebrated in art history for its sculptural mastery, its architectural identity as a constructed stone dome—distinct from excavated caves—remains under-researched. Existing studies have largely relied on geometric analyses based on irrational numbers, which lack a historical basis. This study aims to reconstruct the logical design process of Seokguram by distinguishing between architectural planning and the realities of construction. Methodologically, we employ the concept of design constraints to analyze the grotto’s dimensional system and scene perception. We identify external constraints, such as the recorded dimensions of the Bodhgaya Buddha and cosmological symbolism (rectangular antechamber and circular posterior), and internal constraints, specifically the need for complete visual coordination between the Buddha’s head and the detached nimbus stone. Our analysis reveals that the designers negotiated these constraints through an iterative process. Key findings demonstrate that the pedestal’s height and position were adjusted, and the arched headstone was strategically designed as a threshold to ensure the perfect alignment of the Buddha and the nimbus from the viewer’s perspective. Furthermore, contrary to previous hypotheses proposing the use of irrational numbers (e.g., √2), this study proves that the grotto follows a proportional system based on integer modules (with 12 cheok as the main module) and binary division, which facilitated practical construction. In conclusion, Seokguram is not merely a product of aesthetic intuition but a masterpiece of rational design. In contrast to the vertical transcendence of Western Cathedrals, Seokguram Grotto embodies tectonics of empathy, prioritizing human-scale intimacy and visual harmony. Full article

The bell tower of Murcia Cathedral (1521–1793) exhibits a documented inclination whose origin and structural significance have never been examined through an integrated geotechnical–structural approach. This study aims to identify the causes, quantify the magnitude, and assess the safety implications of the tower’s long-term differential settlement. A multidisciplinary methodology is adopted, combining historical construction records, geological and geotechnical data from the Segura alluvial plain, non-destructive testing of masonry, and classical analytical modelling based on Heyman’s masonry theory, consolidation mechanics, and elastic column behaviour. This approach is selected in place of finite element modelling because the tower’s geometry, construction sequence, and material parameters are sufficiently constrained to allow a non-invasive and verifiable assessment suited to heritage structures. Results indicate a total horizontal displacement of approximately 0.56 m toward the northwest, produced by the slow consolidation of compressible silty–clayey deposits influenced by groundwater fluctuations and by historical eccentric load redistributions during the eighteenth-century construction phase. The calculated working compressive stresses (0.83–1.02 N/mm²) remain far below the estimated strength of the limestone masonry, and the bearing capacity analysis suggests a safety factor of about 1.5 against foundation failure. These findings confirm that the tower’s deformation reflects the long-term geotechnical response of the subsoil rather than structural instability. The study provides a non-destructive analytical framework for interpreting settlement mechanisms in historic masonry towers and contributes a quantitatively grounded explanation of the Murcia Cathedral tower’s inclination, offering guidance for future assessment of similar heritage structures. Full article

Cultural tourism has become an increasingly significant phenomenon in urban areas, especially in cities rich in heritage sites. However, when the number of visitors exceeds sustainable capacity thresholds, both the physical and psychological comfort and safety of individuals may be compromised. A higher number of visitors inside historic buildings leads to elevated concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO₂), particularly in poorly ventilated enclosed or confined spaces, primarily as a result of human respiration. Such conditions not only accelerate the deterioration processes affecting heritage materials but also introduce potential health risks for visitors. Parameters such as CO₂ concentration, indoor air temperature, and relative humidity represent key measurable parameters for assessing environmental Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) within heritage buildings. Digital real-time monitoring of these parameters plays a crucial role in preventive heritage conservation, sustainable site management, and in ensuring visitors’ comfort and well-being. This paper presents a procedure and methodology that use digital technological tools to efficiently estimate and monitor the Visitor Carrying Capacity (VCC) of enclosed/confined heritage spaces, especially Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM) and Sensor Technology. These kinds of spaces require particular attention due to their spatial characteristics. In order to do so, it is necessary to know the geometry of the site, and to consider IAQ conditions. This study also considers the number of People at One Time (PAOT) and Visitor Occupancy (VO). The results focus on the procedural development of the analysis and emphasise the role of digital tools not only due to their efficiency and accuracy in spatial analysis for estimating VCC, but especially for the real-time monitoring of visitors and surveying specific environmental parameters. The experimental phase of this study uses the Chapel of the Holy Chalice of the Valencia Cathedral (Spain) as a pilot case. Monitoring this space reveals how quickly high CO₂ levels are reached with continuous visitor presence, and how long it takes for them to decay in absence of people and under passive ventilation conditions. The outcome of this research is a detailed methodological framework designed to assess and monitor Visitor Carrying Capacity (VCC) in enclosed/confined heritage sites by integrating digital technologies, thereby enhancing sustainable management, planning and decision-making processes. Full article

The Cathedral of San Giorgio, a chief example of Baroque architecture in Sicily (Italy), has been the focus of extensive geophysical investigations aimed at structural and subsoil characterization to support heritage conservation efforts. This study is among the few to apply a high-resolution Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey to the pillars of a Baroque Church, revealing internal structural details not documented in any available historical sources. Using a 2 GHz antenna, parallel radar profiles, spaced 0.05 m apart in both directions, were collected to reconstruct a detailed 3D model of the internal structure. Depth-slice and 3D-view analyses revealed multiple reflector sets corresponding to the different masonry blocks forming the pillars. Distinct internal layers were identified at depths of 0.22–0.30 m and 0.40–0.55 m, indicating blocks approximately 0.20–0.30 m in height and the possible presence of vertical connectors. These results complement previous studies that defined the dynamic parameters of the structure and a 3D velocity model of the subsoil, which suggested anomalies linked to remnants of the ancient Byzantine church of San Nicola. Overall, the findings provide valuable insights into the construction techniques and current condition of the pillars, contributing essential data for the planning of conservation and restoration strategies. Full article

Gypsum alabaster as material for European sculpture emerged in the 12th century and soon rivalled marble due to its accessibility, ease of sculpting, and aesthetic qualities. Lack of clear terminology and the visual similarity of the two materials have led to a considerable amount of confusion and deliberate misnomers. Despite attempts, since early modern times, to make a clear physical and chemical distinction between both materials, mistakes persist, even in modern collections. Here we present a non-invasive, cost-effective, reliable technique to differentiate the two, using an ultra-portable near-infrared spectrometer. The characteristic NIR spectrum of gypsum alabaster over the range of 900–1700 nm strongly contrasting with the near-featureless spectra of marble, allows for a simple and straightforward differentiation of these materials. Our technique enables rapid lithological identification of complex composite sculptural ensembles. We illustrate this through two case studies: The 15th century Saint Catherine of Alexandria from Kortrijk, attributed to André Beauneveu, one of the most prominent artists of the late Middle Ages, was supposedly made of alabaster, but is in fact made of marble and restored with alabaster replacement parts. The tomb of Prince-Bishop Julius Echter in Würzburg Cathedral is an example of the variety of materials used for such monuments in the 17th century. Here we highlight a previously undocumented but extensive use of multi-coloured alabaster. Full article

This study has investigated the structural and seismic performance of monolithic stone columns in the historical Mosque–Cathedral of Córdoba, with a focus on the earliest section constructed during the reign of Abd al-Rahman I (VIII century). An advanced 3D finite element (FE) model has been developed to assess the effects of geometric imperfections and component interactions on the stability of columns under both vertical and horizontal static loading. Three distinct modelling strategies have been employed in OpenSees 3.7.1, incorporating column inclination and contact elements to simulate mortar interfaces. Material properties have been calibrated using experimental data and in situ observations. The gravitational analysis has shown no significant damage in any of the configurations, aligning with the observed undamaged state of the structure. Conversely, horizontal analyses have revealed that tensile damage has predominantly occurred at the lower shaft. The inclusion of contact elements has led to a significant reduction in lateral resistance, highlighting the importance of accounting for friction and interface behaviour. Column inclination has been found to have a significant influence on failure patterns. These findings have highlighted the critical role of detailed modelling in evaluating structural vulnerabilities. Such features are generally included in the numerical modelling and evaluation of heritage buildings. Consequently, they can contribute to a better understanding of the seismic behaviour of historic masonry structures. Full article

Historic buildings and urban streetscapes face increasing threats from climate change, development, and aging infrastructure, creating a pressing need for accurate and scalable documentation methods. This review assesses the combined use of photogrammetry and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies in preserving built cultural heritage. We systematically analyze the end-to-end workflow, from the sophisticated processing of imagery into highly detailed and accurate 3D models in photogrammetry software via data acquisition using diverse UAV platforms and sensor payloads. Through case studies, including the mapping of ancient Maya sites in the Yucatán Peninsula and the conservation of the Notre Dame Cathedral, the review highlights the accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility offered by this technological synergy, underscoring its significance for heritage conservation, research, and the development of digital twins. Furthermore, it explores how these advancements foster public engagement and virtual accessibility, enabling immersive experiences and enriched educational opportunities. The paper also critically assesses the inherent technical, ethical, and legal challenges associated with this methodology, offering a balanced perspective on its application. By synthesizing the current knowledge, this review proposes future research trajectories and advocates for best practices, aiming to guide heritage professionals in leveraging photogrammetry and UAVs for the effective documentation and safeguarding of global cultural heritage. Full article

This study proposes a simplified, mechanics-based methodology for assessing the seismic vulnerability of reinforced concrete (RC) churches, particularly those with basilica plans and cathedral portal frames such as a repetitive inclined-beam portal frame. The method integrates linear and nonlinear static analyses, plastic limit theory, and capacity spectrum methods to generate seismic risk indices using minimal input data, making it suitable for large-scale screening in low-data conditions. The model is calibrated using the Cathedral of Reggio Calabria and applied to the Church of San Giovanni Battista dei Fiorentini in Naples. Key outputs include simplified capacity curves and performance indicators. The methodology addresses current limitations in conventional approaches by offering an accessible tool for rapid assessment of cultural infrastructure. Future developments may incorporate AI and machine learning (AI/ML) techniques to improve typological classification and enable automated vulnerability screening at the regional scale. Full article

As the cathedral serving Zuoyun and parts of Inner Mongolia, the Batayizi Church in Datong, Shanxi is the largest surviving Italian Gothic-style Catholic church in the region. The church features a rigorous layout and refined details, making it a significant case study for the dissemination and development of Western architecture in China. Previous studies have focused on local chronicles, aesthetic analyses, and the indigenization of Catholic churches in Shanxi. Due to the scarcity of archival materials, research on the architecture itself has not yet been conducted. The article first summarizes the construction rules of local form and order of Italian Gothic churches based on related church remains and literature. Next, it establishes the architectural form of the church by combining construction rules and field surveys. Finally, the reconstruction design of the church is completed. As the first reconstruction study of the Batayizi Church, this paper attempts to explore a Reconstruction path based on the construction of local form and order of the church and systematically restores the main facade, floor plan, and structural form of the church. The results not only provide insights for the reconstruction of modern Catholic churches in Shanxi but also offer new ideas and methods for the study of the localization of Western architecture in China. Full article