Exploring structural deterioration at historical buildings with UAV photogrammetry

Abstract

The preservation and transmission of cultural heritage to future generations are crucial in today's rapidly advancing world. This study focuses on the application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology and photogrammetric techniques in the modeling and documentation of Germus Church, a significant cultural heritage site. The research aims to create a high-fidelity 3D model of the church, capturing its architectural intricacies and deformations caused by time and damage. The fieldwork involved capturing aerial photographs using a DJI Mavic 2 Pro UAV system, followed by image processing with Structure-from-Motion (SfM) software. The generated 3D model revealed extensive deformations, including cracks, collapses, and loss of religious figures and decorations. The findings emphasize the importance of preserving and restoring Germus Church for tourism promotion. The study showcases the effectiveness of UAV technology in documenting cultural heritage and highlights its potential for future applications. The 3D model serves as a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and the public, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our rich cultural heritage.