Chapter Coastal cultural landscapes of the tonnare of southeast Sicily: analysis and visualization of data

Abstract

The study currently underway along the coasts of south-eastern Sicily, born from the collaboration between the Federico II University, Stanford University, Brock University and the Soprintendenza del Mare della Regione Siciliana, reflects the primary stages of a research methodology focused on the analysis of spaces, both architectural and natural, in relation to the processes of use that have occurred over time. Activities have included an initial phase of 3D digitization using laser scanning, drone Lidar, and terrestrial and underwater photogrammetry of the tonnare of Capo Passero, Marzamemi and Vendicari, as well as the areas of Punta delle Formiche and Morghella in the municipality of Portopalo di Capo Passero. The data were processed to support subsequent geospatial analysis. The georeferenced models can provide an accurate representation of built heritage, settlement traces along the coastline, submerged archaeological features, and geomorphological characteristics of the area, which reflect the dynamics of landscape use and the continuous transformation of these spaces as a result of natural and anthropogenic actions. This integrated work supports new forms of communication of scientific data, both through temporary “pop-up” exhibitions, and through a planned immersive installation project in the Magazzini and in the Tonnara Tower of Vendicari, and through the study of complex spatial interrelations of the integrated data using ArcGIS Modelbuilder.