ABSTRACT

Three-dimensional (3D) laser scanning provides a non-contact and highly accurate method for documenting artworks, archaeological sites, and architectural heritage. Unlike conventional optical techniques that primarily produce two-dimensional records, 3D laser scanning captures the spatial geometry of an object's surface as a detailed set of three-dimensional coordinates. This paper presents the principles, acquisition methods, data processing procedures, and cultural heritage applications of 3D laser scanning. Three principal techniques are discussed: laser triangulation, primarily suited to small and medium-sized objects requiring high resolution; laser time-of-flight scanning, appropriate for larger structures and longer measurement ranges; and micro-profilometry for very small areas requiring extremely high resolution. The scanning process produces point clouds that can be aligned, merged, edited, measured, and converted into three-dimensional models for documentation, analysis, conservation, and reproduction. A standard methodology involving acquisition planning, equipment positioning and calibration, scanning, data merging, quality assessment, storage, and post-processing is described. The practical application of these techniques is demonstrated through case studies including Palaeolithic rock engravings in the Côa Valley, Roman architectural remains in Lisbon, St. Antonio Chapel and Kordin Temples III in Malta, and Tas-Salvatur Chapel. These examples demonstrate the ability of 3D laser scanning to record complex geometries, overcome occlusions through multiple viewpoints, integrate data from different scanning systems, and support conservation and restoration activities. The study highlights the value of 3D laser scanning as a precise, non-invasive documentation technique that enables detailed analysis, digital preservation, virtual representation, and potential physical reproduction of cultural heritage objects and structures.

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