Studying the historical furnishings of the Royal Palace of the Reggia di Caserta to understand the impact of temperature variations on ancient wood: this is the objective of the research program launched thanks to the collaboration between the Museum of the Ministry of Culture and two universities. The agreement was signed with the Department of Engineering of the University of Salento and the University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli.
Research activities and tools used
Coordinated by Professors Rosa De Finis and Sara Gonizzi Barsanti, the program is part of the Prin, Research Projects of Significant National Interest, dedicated to funding public research in line with the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). The goal is to conserve and maintain the historical assets of the Royal Palace in a planned manner, foreseeing any structural changes to the wood and planning maintenance and restoration interventions. Scholars are analyzing the wooden furniture and furnishings of the Royal Apartments through advanced technologies such as three-dimensional surveying via photogrammetry, laser scanners and infrared thermography, tools capable of diagnosing critical areas and anomalies.
Data monitoring and analysis
For a detailed analysis, data loggers were installed inside some spaces to record humidity and temperature. These values are influenced by both external climatic conditions and the flow of visitors. The integration of thermographic data and 3D models will allow structural analyses to be carried out on thermal changes and their effect on the conservation of historic wood. The application of artificial intelligence algorithms will contribute to the creation of predictive models on the evolution of furniture wear. The goal is to monitor the progression of degradation in the long term, ensuring effective conservation of historic furnishings. These studies will allow the Royal Palace of Caserta to develop concrete and long-term planning for the protection of its heritage, avoiding emergency interventions that do not ensure lasting protection.
Article published on 13 February 2025 - 18:55
It is interesting that the historical furnishings of the Royal Palace of Caserta are being studied, but I do not understand how the integration between data and analysis works. Let's hope it brings useful results for conservation.