A Multisensory Analysis of the Moisture Course of the Cave of Altamira (Spain): Implications for Its Conservation

[EN] This paper addresses the conservation problems of the cave of Altamira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, Spain, due to the effects of moisture and water inside the cave. The study focuses on the description of methods for estimating the trajectory and zones of humi...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Bayarri, Vicente, Prada, Alfredo, De Las Heras, Carmen, Fatás, Pilar, García García, Francisco|||0000-0003-1488-2764
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2024
País:España
Institución:Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV)
Repositorio:RiuNet. Repositorio Institucional de la Universitat Politécnica de Valéncia
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:riunet.upv.es:10251/203399
Acceso en línea:https://riunet.upv.es/handle/10251/203399
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Data integration
Mapping
Karst system
Rock discontinuities
Cultural heritage
Rock art
Preventive conservation
Geomatics
Ground penetrating radar
Cultural management
INGENIERIA CARTOGRAFICA, GEODESIA Y FOTOGRAMETRIA
Descripción
Sumario:[EN] This paper addresses the conservation problems of the cave of Altamira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Santillana del Mar, Cantabria, Spain, due to the effects of moisture and water inside the cave. The study focuses on the description of methods for estimating the trajectory and zones of humidity from the external environment to its eventual dripping on valuable cave paintings. To achieve this objective, several multisensor remote sensing techniques, both aerial and terrestrial, such as 3D laser scanning, a 2D ground penetrating radar, photogrammetry with unmanned aerial vehicles, and high-resolution terrestrial techniques are employed. These tools allow a detailed spatial analysis of the moisture and water in the cave. The paper highlights the importance of the dolomitic layer in the cave and how it influences the preservation of the ceiling, which varies according to its position, whether it is sealed with calcium carbonate, actively dripping, or not dripping. In addition, the crucial role of the central fracture and the areas of direct water infiltration in this process is examined. This research aids in understanding and conserving the site. It offers a novel approach to water-induced deterioration in rock art for professionals and researchers.