Geodesy, Surveying, 3D Modelling, and AI Virtual Reconstruction in the Archaeological Sites and Monuments of the Former Settlement of Ribeira Grande in Cidade Velha (Santiago Island, Cape Verde)

Abstract. The spatial framing of this contribution are the works of geometric documentation that are part of an archaeological mission abroad developed by universities of Spain and Portugal in the historical settlement of Ribeira Grande (now, Cidade Velha) in Cape Verde —a UNESCO World Heritage site, since 2009— in collaboration with the local Instituto do Património Cultural (IPC). The text describes the planning and the establishment of the geodetic network and the three-dimensional modelling of the remains of the Cathedral, with emphasis in the particular conditions of a fieldwork carried out in a reduced number of days, little equipment and with only partial prior knowledge about the work environment. The study also explores the virtual reconstruction of the original appearance of the Cathedral but, in absence of historical expertise, we resorted to generative AI engines to create the views; the procedure to obtain these evocative pictures is presented, as well as a comment about their usefulness.