Arca Ferrata

This project presents the virtual reconstruction of a Roman Imperial-era arca ferrata discovered at the Molino de Arriba archaeological site (Buniel, Spain). The reconstruction is intended to facilitate the dissemination of the artifact through a documentary video explaining the main characteristics and features of this reconstruction. The project was developed as a Bachelor’s Final Degree Project in Media Communication, in collaboration with the Government of Castilla y León and the Museum of Burgos.

IN COLABORATION WITH:

The purpose of this project is to create an accurate reconstruction of a Roman arca ferrata based on the archaeological remains discovered at the Molino de Arriba archaeological site in Buniel, Spain. The resulting 3D model has been used in a documentary video and is intended to be incorporated into immersive Virtual Reality experiences in the future. The main objectives of this project are:

•   HISTORICAL ACCURACY IN RECONSTRUCTION AND REPRESENTATION

The reconstruction was developed based on a comprehensive historical and archaeological study of the artifact. However, the poor condition of the surviving metal remains has required making uncertain assumptions regarding the appearance and finishing of some elements of the piece.

•   DISSEMINATION

The 3D model generated through the reconstruction process has been used in a documentary video produced for the Museum of Burgos. In the future, there are plans to incorporate the model into immersive Virtual Reality experiences, providing new ways to explore and communicate the archaeological and historical significance of the artifact.

This project was carried out using Reality Scan, Blender and Adobe Premiere as the primary tools

•   PHOTOGRAMMETRY SURVEY

First, a photogrammetric survey of the preserved remains of the arca was carried out to accurately document its current state and geometry.

•   HISTORICAL DOCUMENTATION AND ARCHEOLOGICAL WORK

To ensure the historical accuracy of the reconstruction, comparative analyses of other roman arcas were conducted. In addition, the archaeological remains excavated in Buniel were thoroughly studied in order to identify their dimensions, structure, and most significant elements.

•   3D MODELLING AND TEXTURING

Using Blender, the different elements were modelled and textured, based on the information obtained from the photogrammetric survey and historical and archaeological research.

•   VIDEO EDITING

Finally, all the generated assets and resources were brought together into a documentary video explaining the most relevant aspects of the cultural heritage asset.

Alex Da Silva Suarez, Adelaida Rodríguez Rodríguez, Luis Araus Ballesteros, Andrés Bustillo Iglesias, (2024), Virtual reconstruction of a low-empire roman arca ferrata by means of 3D animation techniques, Sarmental. Estudios de Historia del Arte y Patrimonio,  3, 123-136, https://doi.org/10.36443/sarmental

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Project details
PROJECT TITLE:

Arca Ferrata

STUDENT'S NAME:

Alex Da Silva Suárez

DEGREE:

Media Communication

COLLABORATION WITH:

Junta de Castilla y León and Museo de Burgos

LAST VERSION RELEASE:

September, 2023