In Alaior we find the funerary naveta of Torrellisar Vell, also called “sa Cova de ses Ratespinyades”. Dated between 1400 and 800 BC, 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.
OBJECTIVES
- The main purpose of this project is the 3D imaging, using the digital photogrammetry technique, of the Torrellisar Vell funerary naveta, both of the exterior and interior of the monument (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).
- With the 3D imaging, 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).
- With the 3D photogrammetric model, an informative virtual tour of the monument has also been rendered to show the results of the project and bring the monument closer to the world (found in 4K, HD and in light format for mobile devices).
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 heritage 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 asset, 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.
The creation of this 3D model makes it easier for all those interested to be able to know what the interior of the property is like and go through, just as light does, each of the stones that make up the funerary naveta of Torrellisar Vell. This is a very powerful informative and educational resource, which
allows this exceptional Menorcan prehistoric monument to be seen all over the world.