The new 3D video of the funerary naveta of Torrellisar Vell is now available on the Talayotic Menorca YouTube channel. Elaborated by the archaeologist and specialist in 3D imaging and heritage virtualization Bruno Parés, this piece allows us to see what the interior and exterior of the building is like, and to go through, just as light does, each one of its stones.
This powerful informative and educational resource approaches this exceptional Menorcan prehistoric monument to viewers from all over the world. The project is the result of the Cultural Rescue program launched by the Department of Cultural Affairs of the Consell Insular de Menorca in 2021.
In addition to this video (found in 4K, HD and in light format for mobile devices), along with the 3D imaging obtained with digital photogrammetry, Parés generated other valuable resources:
- the orthophotos of the ground plan, elevations and sections of the current moment have been generated with the highest precision (in high resolution .jpg format 20,000 x 20,000 megapixels).
- scaled 3D models in .obj format, which can be opened with all 3D editing programs; and in .blend format, which is the most widely used free software program.
These are very useful tools to learn from the past. On the one hand, the 3D documentation and the virtual visit lets the viewer observe the monument from all angles, visit its interior and generate conversations about its uses and construction. On the other, the 3D printed scaled replica of the monument, can be appreciated in a tactile way to make it easier for people with visual disabilities to better understand the building. All together making (3d model, audiovisual and 3d printing) these resources excelent tools for Menorcan schools.
The naveta of Torrellisar Vell
The funerary naveta of Torrellisar Vell, also called “sa Cova de ses Ratespinyades”, is located in Alaior. Dated between 1400 and 800 a. C., it is an original monument, exclusive to Talayotic Menorca.
This circular naveta has an exterior face built with stone blocks in horizontal rows forming a slope, with the door located to the west. Along with the Llumena naveta, they are the only two circular-shaped navetas that have a chimney with access to the upper floor. The room is ovaled with rough stones in horizontal rows and is covered by four large flat slabs. The integrity of the building is currently threatened, as one of the roof slabs is broken down the middle, with one half on the ground; it could, therefore, collapse.
These 3D documentation techniques are relatively new in the heritage field, but very effective thanks to the quality of the renders, the short investment time it requires (compared to archaeological field drawing) and because of the fact that it is a
non-invasive technique causing no risk to the documented heritage asset. It also allows us to have a reliable record in case restoration of the property is needed. This type of documentation reflects reality with millimeter precision and allows us to have a reliable image of the asset at a specific date. This technique has, therefore, revealed itself as a
very useful tool for studying the state of conservation of Torrellisar Vell and its degree of degradation.
In this way, based on the 3D document, an
action plan can be carried out regarding the conservation and maintenance of the naveta, paying special attention to the parts that present the greatest degradation. It also allows one to have a reliable record for restoration purposes. This type of imaging can also serve to generate hypotheses about how the property was constructed, study its walls, the typology of the raw materials used, among other things of archaeological, architectural or historical value.