3D Acquisition and HBIM Modeling of Medieval Architectures in Rome: The Albergo of the Catena

Generally, the integrated application of 3D surveying and BIM modelling methodologies on complex case studies leads to a critical evaluation of the pros and cons of the applied process. Virtual 3D models can become a knowledge repository and flexible communication tools to highlight the historical evolution of the building as well as its material and technological articulation. The article, therefore, proposes to describe a complete knowledge path framed in the representation domain and applied to a stratified medieval artefact up to its new virtual reconfiguration, fixing some critical points of the process and analysing the geometric and material complexities. In detail, the integrated use of active and passive tools enabled the collection of information in a single knowledge model, evaluating the reliability of the data and comparing the different techniques. The interpretation phase of the 3D data allowed the extraction of plans, elevations and sections. These representations defined the basis for the construction of a 3D BIM model. The data interpretation and simplification of shapes in the BIM environment are subject to critical evaluation, considering the modelling tool’s constraints. The virtual representation towards knowledge and heritage promotion represents the final aim of the project.