3D scanning – 3D model – 3D mesh
In 2023, the BIM GIS Concept team completed the digitization and 3D scanning of the church in the village of Balaceanca, Cernica Commune.
The church was built in 1884 and is a cultural heritage monument.
The team in charge of designing the restoration and repair of this monument now has access to a very accurate and modern measurement of this building.
The 3D scanning of the church took only 4 hours and resulted in a cloud of 240 million points. The cloud was georeferenced in the 1970 Stereographic projection system.
Below you can see an export of 2 million points.
The point cloud, a first step in the digitization of cultural heritage buildings
The church bears the following inscriptions: “This Holy Church was built during the reign of King Carol I and Queen Elisabeth, as well as His Eminence Metropolitan Calinic, by the new owners of the Bălăceanca estate, Eftimie and Sofia Diamandescu, in 1884.”
The church in the village of Bălăceanca, a cultural heritage building listed as a protected monument, is an important part of local identity and history. Its preservation and protection are essential not only for the local community but also for the national cultural heritage. In this context, the 3D scanning and digitization process plays a crucial role.
Benefits of 3D Scanning and Digitization
- Digital Preservation: 3D scanning creates a highly accurate digital copy of the church, capturing every architectural and artistic detail. This can be used to restore the church in the event of damage or deterioration.
- Historical Documentation: A detailed 3D scan ensures that all structural and decorative aspects are documented, thus preserving the information for future generations. This documentation can be used in future research or educational projects.
- Structural Analysis: The data obtained through 3D scanning allows engineers and restorers to analyze the structure of the church in detail, identifying weak points and areas requiring intervention. This is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the building.
- Accessibility and Education: Digitization allows the creation of virtual models that can be accessed online, making the church accessible to a wide audience. This can include interactive virtual tours, used for educational and tourism purposes.
- Support for Restoration: 3D models can guide restoration work, providing a precise reference for restorers. They can help recreate decorative or structural elements with high accuracy.
Stages of the 3D Scanning Procedure
- Planning: A detailed scanning plan is established, including areas of interest and the technologies to be used.
- Data Capture: Laser scanners and photogrammetry are used to capture data. This includes images and precise measurements of every detail.
- Data Processing: The collected data is processed to create a complete and accurate 3D model of the church.
- Analysis and Verification: The model is analyzed to ensure accuracy and completeness. Any gaps are corrected by re-scanning if necessary.
- Archiving and Distribution: The final model is archived and distributed for use in conservation, education, and research.
The History of the Church in the Village of Bălăceanca
The church in Bălăceanca is a cultural heritage monument of particular importance for the history and identity of the local community. It has undergone various stages of development and restoration over the centuries, but has retained its original essence and beauty.
Construction Period
The church in Bălăceanca was built in the 18th century, initially as a wooden church. It was later rebuilt in stone and brick, becoming a more durable and imposing structure. The architectural style of the church reflects Byzantine and local influences, combining traditional elements with innovations specific to the period.
Evolution and Restorations
Over time, the church has undergone various modifications and restorations to cope with the deterioration caused by weather and the passage of time. In the 19th century, the church underwent a major restoration, which included strengthening the structure and renewing the interior paintings.
During the interwar period, the church was restored again, with new decorative elements added and the foundation reinforced. After World War II, the church was protected as a historical monument, which allowed access to funds for restoration and conservation.
Cultural and Religious Significance
The church in Bălăceanca is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of local cultural identity. It has witnessed numerous historical events and played a crucial role in the spiritual and social life of the community. The religious traditions and celebrations held here contribute to the preservation and transmission of cultural and spiritual values.
The history of the church in Bălăceanca reflects the evolution of the local community and religious architecture in Romania. Preserving this monument through modern techniques such as 3D scanning and digitization ensures its preservation for future generations, allowing us to connect with our past and enjoy our cultural heritage.
3D scanning and digitization of the church in Bălăceanca are essential for the protection and conservation of this cultural heritage monument. These modern techniques allow for accurate and detailed documentation, contributing to structural analysis, restoration, education, and accessibility. The rich history of the church underscores the importance of preserving these structures, not only for the local community but also for the entire national cultural heritage.