Our reconstruction is as accurate as it is possible to be. Working from detailed
CAD models which were drawn up by Dr Paul Blomerus, who referred to all
the
available information and checked measurements when inspecting in the field.
We created a version of the Erechtheion that adheres strictly to the CAD model,
then continued adding decoration and fine detail on all the architectural features.
Above: 2014 reconstrucion showing the revised architecture of the Pandroseion on the right. Our previous model
featured a preliminary proposiion which you can see in the 3D gallery below.
Our approach in reconstructing the Erechtheion.
Each detail of the Erechtheion 3D reconstruction has been checked by Alexandra Lesk before inclusion.
Although the modelling
is not yet complete - particular details may yet change when new research
is implemented on our reconstruction thus providing a more accurate representation from antiqiuty.
There is some artistic licence
in selecting the colours, the shape and size of the sacred olive tree, use
and placement
of stone or marble altars and other features.
Below: working 3D reconstruction models of the Erechtheion
Where there is no hard evidence of certain features the team have thought carefully about
the position
and environment of the buildings, the everyday uses as well as the major yearly
events such as the
Panathenaia, and the people who would most likely have been
there every day.
Based on comparisons from many other Greek archaeological sites and buildings, images,
paintings
and written accounts, we have included pots and pithoi, plants and water features
where they may
have been placed and used.
We make no apology for any inclusions that may be contentious – but
would be most
interested in all views as to what may or may not be correct, and the reasons why.
The Pandroseion
The adjoining architectural structure to the Erechtheion was known as the Pandroseion. A number
of conjectural reconstructions have been proposed for this and we have looked at three possible
solutions. From a simple 'L' shape to the more substantial Ionic and the Doric style.
Kourtzellis Ioannis used our first 3D reconstruction from 2009 to evaluate the
advantages and
disadvantages of 3D computer graphics for the reconstruction
of historical Hellenistic architecture
in his published article:-
A critical approach to
Digital Three-Dimensional Representation of Monuments, an
excerpt is shown below:-
" The contribution of computers to archaeology and particularly to the study and
visualisation
of archaeological data for the confirmation of theories and the
presentation of excavation
material to the scientific community and the broader public has a history of almost twenty
years, during which digital representations
of exceptional accuracy have been achieved. "