The use of laser scanning technology for the restoration of historical buildings

Abstract

The restoration of historical monuments presents significant challenges, requiring a combination of precision and non-intrusive techniques to preserve their architectural integrity. This paper explores the use of Terrestrial and Aerial Laser Scanning for the renovation of the Republican Stadium, a historical structure built between 1950-1951 in Chișinău, Republic of Moldova. The application of modern methods, such as scanning with the Leica BLK360 and DJI Phantom 4 RTK, along with advanced software like Leica Cyclone Register 360 and AgisoftMetashape, enabled the highly accurate capture of data regarding the structure and decorative details of the stadium. The integration of this data into a complex three-dimensional system facilitated the creation of a detailed digital model, essential for preserving the original architectural elements and planning restoration interventions. Moreover, the transformation of point clouds into textured 3D meshes enabled the creation of realistic visualizations for analysis, restoration planning, and virtual exploration. This study highlights the significant potential of combining terrestrial and aerial scanning technologies for the conservation of cultural heritage, demonstrating how non-intrusive methods can offer both accuracy and the preservation of original features in the restoration of historical buildings.