Digitisation for restoration and turistic enhancement: Chapel Castiglioni in Pavia
About this good practice
The Castiglioni Chapel was selected as a Best Practice example for Pavia due to the innovative methodology and use of digital technologies applied to a small yet culturally significant site. The Chapel is located inside the Collegio Castiglioni, an historical college (dormitory) in Pavia with female-only access to the rooms.
The goal was to create a solid knowledge base to support restoration efforts and to develop digital tools for inclusive, sustainable Heritage enhancement. The project included a thorough historical and material analysis of the Chapel, metric documentation through point clouds (laser scanner), and the creation of digital 3D models. These models were used to monitor structural conditions and simulate restoration scenarios.
Further outcomes included virtual and augmented reality experiences, immersive virtual tours, and an information system with parametric models to assist in restoration and maintenance planning.
This comprehensive approach made it possible to open new paths for digital access, tourism, public engagement promoting historical memory, while also serving as a model for applying similar techniques to other heritage sites.
The 3D survey and documentation was extended to the entire college in order to obtain a comprehensive database.
Resources needed
Commissioned to UniPV Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture
Financed by "Fondazione Comunitaria" of Pavia - EDiSU Pavia Ente per il Diritto allo Studio Universitario: 8.000,00 euro (Chapel) + 35.000,00 euro (Survey of the Collegio and 3D model)
Research Labs: STEP, PLAY, DAda-LAB (UniPV)
Evidence of success
The digitisation of the Chapel enabled structural monitoring and public engagement planning, increasing citizens' attention to the Chapel and its context. In addition, the documentation was used as a basis for developing plans to redevelop the college, supporting EDiSU's application for national funding. The institution obtained EUR 5 million in funding through the Italian Omnibus Decree for the redevelopment of the site.
Potential for learning or transfer
The methodology applied to Chapel Castiglioni offers a replicable model for documenting, diagnosing, and enhancing disused or vulnerable Heritage sites. The integration of 3D surveys, digital models, and georeferenced databases facilitates collaboration among professionals from different disciplines and supports data-driven decision-making for restoration and maintenance.
Moreover, the creation of immersive virtual environments (AR/VR) increases accessibility and encourages public engagement, even for sites currently closed to visitors. These tools can be adapted to other contexts, promoting widespread application in Heritage management, education, and cultural tourism.
The process also proves effective in securing funding, as demonstrated by the grant obtained for this project. This makes the approach highly valuable for other regions looking to preserve and revitalize architectural Heritage through innovation and digital transformation.
