Santa Maria Antiqua al foro Romano

In 2007 Dr. Elizabeth Louden, Texas Tech University and Professor Michele Chiuini, Ball State University completed laser scanning of S. Maria Antiqua within the Roman Forum. The survey data collected allowed for the creation of a digital model where the ancient masonry walls can be mapped to provide a precise record of the construction materials and the location of the delicate frescoes.. The data was also collected to provide a point in time record should a seismic event cause damage to the walls and frescoes and to provide baseline data to create images and precision drawings where necessary. This project was funded by the Kacyra Family Foundation and fits into a larger panorama of conservation and research work undertaken over the past seven years. Built in the middle of the 5th century on the north-western slope of the Palatine Hill, Santa Maria Antiqua is the earliest and most significant Christian monument within the Roman Forum. The church contains a unique collection of wall paintings from the 6th to late 8th century. The discovery of these paintings have given many theories on the development of early medieval art and given distinctive beliefs in archaeology. The church was abandoned in the 9th century after an earthquake buried the buildings; it remained sealed for over 1000 years until its rediscovery in the early 20th century. External Project Link: \N Additional Info Link: