Utilising non-invasive measurement methods for the inventory of endangered cultural heritage -case study of Iraq

Abstract

Advanced non-invasive remote sensing techniques, in conjunction with advanced digital technologies designed for the acquisition and comprehensive analysis of extensive datasets, hold substantial promise for significantly augmenting the capacities associated with the documentation of cultural heritage sites. This is especially crucial when it comes to preserving endangered cultural heritage. The main goal of this article was to demonstrate instances of non-invasive approaches used to catalog cultural heritage objectes and locations in Iraq. This investigation showcased a number of examples and employed a variety of contemporary data collection and processing techniques. These included digital close-range photogrammetry, Building Information Modeling (BIM), data from crowdsourced data, and findings derived from Mosul Project. As evident, reality underscores the presence of numerous perils endangering the preservation of tangible cultural heritage sites worldwide. Precious architectural marvels, artistic creations, and natural landmarks are at risk of permanent loss. Therefore, a prompt inventory process, along with the creation of precise digital models, ensures the protection, rescue, and potential reconstruction of these invaluable entities. The instances provided in this article, proved that the application of different digitization methods to Iraq's cultural heritage, can readily serve as a model for other endangered objects and sites.