Reflections on HBIM Modeling at the Urban Scale. At the Core of Bologna’s Santo Stefano District: the Baraccano Area

Abstract

The essay aims to presente the research conducted on by the University of Bologna as part of the PRIN project HBIM (Historic Building Information Modeling) at the urban scale. This project, known as HPFC (Historic Preservation Foundation Classes), focuses on developing tools for the effective preservation and conservation of architectural heritage across different scales, from individual monuments to entire historic districts. In this study, attention is directed towards a specific area within the Santo Stefano District in Bologna, particularly the buildings along the historic 'Strada,' which has been mentioned since the 12th century. The narrative briefly outlines the district's historical evolution from the Middle Ages to the present day. It also discusses the challenges encountered in integrating the unique characteristics of a complex and layered urban environment, such as the Baraccano area, into existing digital modeling frameworks. Furthermore, the study explores potential applications of detection tools for physical phenomena related to the historical use of this territory. These tools have been in use for some time and offer insights into various aspects of urban heritage conservation. Overall, this research highlights the growing importance of digital management techniques in the field of architectural preservation, signaling a need for their wider adoption and application across different restoration contexts.