Survey of Montecassino abbey, interaction between models

The Ministry of Culture has commissioned the University of Cassino and Southern Lazio to conduct a study for the seismic vulnerability assessment of the Montecassino Abbey complex. Therefore, it was necessary to plan an accurate survey activity to develop digital models for interdisciplinary studies and analyses. The operational workflow focused on creating a data sharing environment for the data already available, in a disarticulated form, and those that can be implemented based on the different types of in-depth analysis, geometric, historical-documentary, structural, and diagnostic. Considering the big dimensions of the Abbey, it was decided to investigate a part, the most significant from a historical point of view, characterized by a very articulated stratigraphy and a complex geometric conformation. The database was organized on a pyramidal structure and implemented with integrated digital survey activities that can be integrated according to subsequent economic availability. The Abbey of Montecassino, repeatedly severely damaged by seismic events and lastly razed to the ground in the Second World War, was rebuilt entirely immediately after the war's end based on careful studies done, fortunately, shortly before its almost destruction. This documentation of inestimable historical value preserved in the archive of the abbey has allowed the recognition, cataloguing and recovery of much raw material used in the reconstruction. Therefore, the development of an appropriate information system based on reliable, accurate and interoperable geometric models becomes strategic for both the bodies responsible for the protection and the community.