Applications of Photogrammetry in the Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of Historical Monuments: Approaches, Challenges, and Prospects

Subject Areas :

Mohsen Ghods ^{1 *}

1 -

Received: 2025-07-11 Accepted : 2025-09-21 Published : 2025-10-10

Keywords: Photogrammetry, 3D Reconstruction, Historical Monuments, Digital Preservation, GIS, 3D Modeling,

Abstract :

Photogrammetry has emerged as a cornerstone technology in the preservation and documentation of historical monuments, leveraging advancements in digital imaging and spatial data processing. This method transforms two-dimensional photographs into highly accurate three-dimensional models, enabling detailed examination of architectural elements, intricate designs, and historical textures. Its significance in digital preservation is growing, as it safeguards cultural heritage against threats like natural disasters, environmental degradation, and human activities. This article explores the foundational principles of photogrammetry and its critical role in heritage conservation. It highlights a range of applications, including the creation of digital replicas, structural analysis, monitoring of temporal changes, and strategic planning for restoration projects. These applications allow professionals to assess the condition of historical sites with precision and develop informed conservation strategies. However, photogrammetry faces challenges, such as inconsistencies in data quality, the computational complexity of processing large datasets, and difficulties in managing intricate 3D models. This study addresses these obstacles and proposes practical solutions to enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and scalability of photogrammetric techniques. By integrating photogrammetry with advanced technologies like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), laser scanning, and artificial intelligence, it becomes a versatile interdisciplinary tool that bridges cultural heritage with modern innovation. This synergy supports comprehensive spatial analysis and fosters new approaches to heritage management. The findings offer valuable guidance for restoration experts, architects, archaeologists, and geoscientists, enabling them to design and implement projects for the digital preservation and virtual reconstruction of historical monuments. Ultimately, this research underscores photogrammetry’s transformative potential in ensuring the sustainable protection of cultural heritage, preserving historical treasures for future generations through cutting-edge technological integration.

References:

Alshawabkeh, Y., & Haala, N. (2006). Integration of laser scanning and photogrammetry for heritage documentation. 35.
Altuntaş, C. (2021). CAMERA SELF-CALIBRATION BY USING SfM BASED DENSE MATCHING FOR CLOSE-RANGE IMAGES. Eurasian Journal of Science Engineering and Technology, 2(2), 69–82. https://dergipark.org.tr/en/pub/ejset/issue/66075/982027
Apollonio, F. I., Fantini, F., Garagnani, S., & Gaiani, M. (2021). A Photogrammetry-Based Workflow for the Accurate 3D Construction and Visualization of Museums Assets. In Remote Sensing (Vol. 13, Issue 3). https://doi.org/10.3390/rs13030486
Calisi, D., Botta, S., & Cannata, A. (2023). Integrated Surveying, from Laser Scanning to UAV Systems, for Detailed Documentation of Architectural and Archeological Heritage. In Drones (Vol. 7, Issue 9). https://doi.org/10.3390/drones7090568
Daneshmand, M., Helmi, A., Avots, E., Noroozi, F., Alisinanoglu, F., Arslan, H. S., Gorbova, J., Haamer, R. E., Ozcinar, C., & Anbarjafari, G. (2018). 3d scanning: A comprehensive survey. ArXiv Preprint ArXiv:1801.08863.
Fraser, C. S. (2001). Photogrammetric Camera Component Calibration: A Review of Analytical Techniques BT - Calibration and Orientation of Cameras in Computer Vision (A. Gruen & T. S. Huang (eds.); pp. 95–121). Springer Berlin Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-04567-1_4
Gîrbacia, F. (2024). An Analysis of Research Trends for Using Artificial Intelligence in Cultural Heritage. In Electronics (Vol. 13, Issue 18). https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics13183738
Hostettler, M., Buhlke, A., Drummer, C., Emmenegger, L., Reich, J., & Stäheli, C. (2024). 3D Archaeology and Cultural Heritage: Where Are We Today? BT - The 3 Dimensions of Digitalised Archaeology: State-of-the-Art, Data Management and Current Challenges in Archaeological 3D-Documentation (M. Hostettler, A. Buhlke, C. Drummer, L. Emmenegger, J. Reich, & C. Stäheli (eds.); pp. 3–8). Springer International Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-53032-6_1
Kovacs, F. (2015). Documentation of cultural heritage; techniques, potentials, and constraints. ISPRS - International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, XL-5/W7, 207–214. https://doi.org/10.5194/isprsarchives-XL-5-W7-207-2015
Palestini, C., & Basso, A. (2019). LOW-COST TECHNOLOGICAL IMPLEMENTATIONS RELATED TO INTEGRATED APPLICATION EXPERIMENTS. ISPRS - International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, XLII-2/W17, 241–248. https://doi.org/10.5194/isprs-archives-XLII-2-W17-241-2019
Petrescu, F. (2010). THE USE OF GIS TECHNOLOGY IN CULTURAL HERITAGE. ISPRS Congress Proceedings XXXVI-5/C53.
Saif, W. (2022). Photogrammetry: A Brief Historical Overview. https://doi.org/10.13140/RG.2.2.27518.87369
Schindler, K., & Förstner, W. (2020). Photogrammetry BT - Computer Vision: A Reference Guide (pp. 1–3). Springer International Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-03243-2_139-1
Wrobel, B. (2006). THE EVOLUTION OF DIGITALPHOTOGRAMMETRYFROM ANALYTICAL PHOTOGRAMMETRY. The Photogrammetric Record, 13, 765–776. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1477-9730.1991.tb00738.x
Yilmaz, H. M., Yakar, M., Gulec, S. A., & Dulgerler, O. N. (2007). Importance of digital close-range photogrammetry in documentation of cultural heritage. Journal of Cultural Heritage, 8(4), 428–433. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.culher.2007.07.004