Celebrated Italian church featuring art by Giotto and Cimabue preserved through new digital reconstruction project
Panoramic views of the Basilica of St Francis of Assisi in central Italy’s Umbria region can be viewed on the Preserving Assisi platform
The Basilica of St Francis of Assisi, renowned for its art by Giotto and Cimabue, has been brought back to life through a new digital reconstruction project. Heritage enthusiasts can now tour the UNESCO World Heritage site via a free-to-access online platform, which features 360-degree panoramic reconstructions of both the upper and lower churches, as well as the exterior, allowing visitors to explore the site in a first-person perspective.
The project, developed by Haltadefinizione using ultra-high-resolution imaging technologies, began with the capture of 27,000 high-definition images of the basilica and its frescoes over the past two years. This data was then used to create 116 gigapixel images, offering an unparalleled level of detail. Notable works like Giotto's "Homage of a Simple Man" (circa 1300) and Pietro Lorenzetti's "Crucifixion" (circa 1320) are showcased in close-up detail, allowing users to examine these masterpieces up close.
The digital reconstruction also provides insight into the basilica's conservation history. In 1997, two earthquakes severely damaged parts of the structure, including Giotto's frescoes. Previous photographic efforts, led by Italian publishing house Franco Cosimo Panini Editore, aided in the restoration of the damaged artworks. Currently, the project is ongoing, continuously adding new content as it strives to preserve and document the basilica's state at a specific point in time.
This not only aids researchers in tracking changes but also serves as a crucial resource for conservation efforts.
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