Geophysics applied to Cultural Heritage

Course objectives

A - Knowledge and understanding OF 1) To know the physical principles underlying the main geophysical methods (geo-electrical, electromagnetic, ground-penetrating radar, seismic, gravimetric, and magnetometric) applicable to cultural heritage studies OF 2) To understand the basic concepts of computational techniques used for the processing and visualization of geophysical data OF 3) To understand the geological characteristics of archaeological and cultural sites and the role of geophysical techniques in monitoring natural processes affecting conservation and integrity. B - Application skills OF 4) To be able to deduce the most appropriate geophysical technique for different types of archaeological sites and cultural heritage assets OF 5) To be able to solve problems related to the planning and execution of non-invasive geophysical surveys OF 6) To be able to collaborate in the application of geophysical techniques and methods for field data acquisition, and to contribute to their processing and interpretation using basic computational tools, while complying with cultural heritage protection regulations C - Autonomy of judgment OF 7) To be able to interpret the results of geophysical investigations, taking into account the historical, archaeological, and geological context of the site OF 8) To integrate the knowledge acquired in order to assess the effectiveness of investigations and propose optimal solutions for the conservation and monitoring of cultural heritage D - Communication skills OF 9) To be able to communicate the results of geophysical investigations clearly and effectively to both scientific and non-scientific audiences OF 10) To be able to present data and conclusions effectively, using visual aids and data visualization techniques OF 11) To be able to collaborate and communicate effectively with professionals from other disciplines (geologists, archaeologists, conservators) within projects aimed at the conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage." E - Ability to learn OF 12) To have the ability to consult and utilize scientific and technical resources related to the application of geophysics to cultural heritage OF 13) To have the ability to continuously update one’s knowledge on emerging technologies and new methodologies in geophysical surveying

Channel 1
PAOLO CIAMPI Lecturers' profile

Program - Frequency - Exams

Course program
• Introduction to Applied Geophysics for Cultural Heritage: overview of geophysical prospecting techniques, active and passive methods, main fields of application. Concepts of forward and inverse problems. • Gravimetric method: principles and applications; Earth’s gravitational field; survey techniques; data correction, anomaly calculation and filtering; interpretation and applications to the detection of voids and underground structures. • Magnetic method: Earth’s magnetic field and rock magnetization; instruments and measurement techniques; interpretation of magnetic anomalies; applications to the identification of buried archaeological structures and anthropogenic materials. • Electrical methods: electrical conduction in geological materials; rock resistivity and Archie’s law; direct current resistivity method, principles and applications; Spontaneous Potential and Induced Polarization methods; applications to archaeological prospection and structural monitoring. • Electromagnetic (EM) methods: fundamentals of electromagnetism; induction methods, VLF techniques, transient EM; ground-penetrating radar (GPR): principles, acquisition, processing, and interpretation; applications in archaeology, architecture, and monument diagnostics. • Seismic methods: elastic wave properties and propagation; refraction and reflection methods; surface waves and active/passive techniques (HVSR, MASW); applications to foundations, masonry structures, and archaeological subsurface characterization. • Hydrogeophysics: the role of geophysics in the study and management of groundwater resources; applications to archaeological and environmental contexts; direct-push and high-resolution techniques; case studies. • Instrumentation and case studies: overview of geophysical equipment, acquisition procedures, data processing and interpretation; practical applications to archaeological sites and cultural heritage assets.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of mathematics, physics, and Earth sciences, with particular emphasis on geological principles. A general understanding of fundamental concepts in archaeology is recommended to fully appreciate the context in which geophysical techniques are applied to cultural heritage.Modalità di svolgimento
Books
Materials provided by the lecturer and shared on the Google Classroom platform. Literature and bibliographic material made available during the course. Reference Text: Introduction to Applied Geophysics by H.R. Burger, A.F. Sheehan, C.H. Jones, W.W. Norton & Company; ISBN: 0393926370.
Frequency
Attendance: Not mandatory but recommended.
Exam mode
The examination consists of two parts: Individual presentation: the student prepares and discusses a short presentation on a case study, selected from the topics and techniques covered during the course. The presentation should demonstrate the ability to connect theoretical principles, methodologies, and practical applications. Oral examination: assessment of the theoretical knowledge acquired during the course, with particular attention to physical principles, data acquisition and processing procedures, and applications to cultural heritage conservation. The final evaluation will be based on the content and quality of the presentation, clarity of communication, and the student’s ability to plan geophysical surveys and interpret data and anomalies.
Lesson mode
Lectures: 40 hours Exercises: 12 hours.
  • Lesson code1051833
  • Academic year2025/2026
  • CourseScience and Technology for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage
  • CurriculumScience and Technology for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage - in lingua inglese
  • Year1st year
  • Semester2nd semester
  • SSDGEO/11
  • CFU6