Articles by Jacopo Scoz

The University of Siena has conducted archaeological research in the Byzantine District of the Pythion (GQB) in Gortyn since 2001. Starting in 2021, the project adopted a FOSS GIS, which serves as a repository for legacy data from the excavation CAD and Wiki. This paper aims at describing the methodological framework and practical needs that led to the ideation, set-up and on-field adoption of the GQB intra-site GIS. The archaeological process within the GQB follows a reflexive and multivocal approach. The paper describes how in recent campaigns it has been supported by the GIS, which has proven valuable for aiding interpretation, allowing researchers to query data quickly. Additionally, innovative research methodologies have been experimented with within the GIS, as it enables fast and precise enrichment of the dataset. One notable area of study concerns micro-economic activities based on the spatial distribution of finds. Furthermore, the spatiality of household archaeology in the district has been examined through contextual analysis of finds. Together with the Wiki, the GIS forms the knowledge management infrastructure of the GQB, fostering the development of ideas aimed at the archaeological interpretation of the site.

In the last couple of years, as part of the archaeological project ‘Uomini e Cose a Vignale’ several tests were conducted, focused on fast and effective methods for the graphic and photographic documentation of the archaeological excavation. This paper presents three case studies, which have produced promising results. All of these were conceived and carried on in order to be based on cost-effective and straightforward procedures, which can be further experimented by other research groups. The final outputs are both sufficiently precise and adequate for the online sharing. The first case study focuses on developing an effective pipeline, based on UAV and 3D modeling, and easy enough to allow every member of the excavation team to carry on autonomously the documentation of its excavation area. The second case study has been aimed at 3D modeling of archival data in order to increase their informational potential. The third case study consisted in the elaboration of a high-definition photoplan of a wide (9x3 m) late antique mosaic. The proposed case studies show that the use of sustainable and low-cost procedures and tools leads to the production of graphic and photographic documentation maintaining good quality standards and suitable for communication purposes.