3D survey and material charaterization of the archaeological complex of the stadium of Anonino Pio in Pozzuoli

The presented work is an expansion of practice exercise carried out for a diploma thesis of the School of Specialization of Architectural Heritage and Landscape of the University of Naples Federico II, in agreement with the Archaeological Park of Phlegraean Fields, and illustrates the results of the 3D survey and material characterization campaign of the archaeological complex of the stadium of Antonino Pio in Pozzuoli. It is located on the western border of the Roman city of Puteoli and was built by Emperor Antonino Pio to host Eusebia, the quinquennial ludi instituted in Hadrian’s memory. After the 6th century, the area was gradually abandoned until it was buried by volcanic ash in 1538. Since the start of the 21st century, archaeological excavations were performed, together with the first series of safety works on the structures and excavation fronts. This research work fits in the phase of analysis and material characterization, which is preliminary to the elaboration of a restoration project. It consisted of the 3D survey of the structure with laser scanning and photo modeling techniques through aerial drone shots and was aimed at the individuation of the construction typologies and ongoing decay phenomena. The continuous reference between the results of the survey and those from the comparative analysis of historical and archival documentation has allowed the reconstruction of its architectural history and the sequence of its recent restorations, hence defining an integrated and implementable picture, which is necessary for the realization of suitable strategies of conservation and fruition.