Low-cost photogrammetric reconstruction of a panel with palaeolithic engravings of Siega Verde (Salamanca, Spain): From the rocky outcrop to the details

Abstract

The goal of this work is the photogrammetric reconstruction of a rocky outcrop with a panel decorated with palaeolithic engravings of the Siega Verde archaeological site (Salamanca, Spain) using photographs obtained with mobile phone cameras.The engravings present in this panel have been previously studied and published. The main objective of this work is the generation of 3D models by low-cost photogrammetry that allow the diffusion and study of the panel.The processing is approached at different quality levels with different photosets to provide the reconstruction of the complete rocky outcrop, the decorated wall, and the details of the engravings. The reconstruction of the rocky outcrop provides interactive 3D models useful to appreciate the morphology and the context of the engraved wall. The reconstruction of the decorated wall, after referencing, permits measurements with errors in the millimetre range and was used to obtain objective and subjective tracings of the engraved motifs. The highest quality level of photogrammetric processing makes it possible to determine the morphology, direction, and dimensions of the pecks and even depths and widths of the individual pecks.