Image re-building. Anastilosis of ancient buildings towards a methodological process innovation

This paper proposes a theoretical-experimental study on “image re-building” of ancient buildings, focusing on the anastilosis and the restoration of stone monuments. As a part of a much broader studies based on the anastilosis of Greek and Roman monuments conducted by Giorgio Rocco and Monica Livadiotti, professors at Polytechnic University of Bari, this research moves from the most recent guidelines about archaeological restoration arising from the multi-year experiences in Greece. As we know, the theories of restoration need for ongoing control about their applications and this is an essential support to technological innovation. The restoration work of the Acropolis in Athens plays a key role in the Mediterranean area and a resource for the "science" of restoration because, in this case, researchers and experts have conducted an important technical and methodological experiment of restoration for about 40 years. In fact, this experience has introduced the criterion of reversibility and a particular attention to the preservation of original structural system of ancient monuments, updating the principles established in the Charts of Restoration. According to the recent guidelines on preservation, we choose now to use compatible materials, in continuity with the ancient technique of stone buildings. Furthermore, as regards the anchoring systems, that are sometimes indispensable in static reinforcement of stone architectural blocks, the researchers are studying new reversible systems (like titanium used in restorations of the Acropolis in Athens), to insert in existing sockets, if possible. During the restoration, use of special resin materials with high irreversibility, still used in Italy, and cutting of antique material are banned. While in Greece important results have been obtained through the cooperation with qualified institutions like the YSMA (The Acropolis Restoration Service), in Italy we can notice a methodological and procedural delay. The stone deterioration in the monuments of Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic period in Magna Graecia and Sicily makes the situation worse. Through some direct and indirect experiences, this paper describes a methodology of image re building and anastilosis of ancient buildings and analyzes the limits and opportunities of using advanced technologies in restoration projects.