From Digital Documentation to Data-Driven Heritage Conservation of San Francesco della Vigna in Venice: A Methodology for Monitoring and Valorization

Abstract. This contribution illustrates the experimental research associated with the ongoing monitoring activities for conserving the façade and bell tower of San Francesco della Vigna church in Venice. The study investigates various technologies and tools for the terrestrial and aerial surveying, documentation, safeguarding, valorization and intervention on Venice's architectural heritage.
The result of the research is a data acquisition methodology for monitoring and vulnerability assessments, yielding to specific graphic deliverables and, crucially, a digital twin, enabling in-depth static and dynamic analyses through Finite Element Modeling (FEM). Notably, the digital model of the statues in the façade's niches was created also using artificial intelligence (AI) and subsequent organic modelling to generate a mesh suitable for structural calculations.
This methodology facilitates the implementation of continuous monitoring of material degradation and crack patterns through non-invasive methodologies. It ensures knowledge and digital documentation of the artifact's conservation status and safety, and, most importantly, allows for a data-driven heritage conservation.
The digital twin revealed several critical issues, including: the inclination of the upper facade, where verticality assessments indicated a deviation from plumb; chromatic alterations, likely due to differential weathering and leaking; and stress concentrations within the decorative statuary.
The collaboration between the Studio Forti architecture firm and University Iuav of Venice demonstrates to the deep synergy between multiple knowledge and skills, with the common goal of protecting and conserving monumental assets through targeted and informed monitoring and intervention.