VIRTUAL PORTO DI RIPETTA

This project is part of my master's thesis "Porto di Ripetta: digital reconstruction of a vanished architecture" (2023).  My theme of study concerns a section of the quay Lungotevere on Via di Ripetta, next to the Ara Pacis, which was destroyed at the beginnig of 20th century to build the retaining walls of the river. The main purpose of my work is to recall, through VR, a lost image of this stretch and, precisely, the period immediately after the completion of the port of Ripetta by Alessandro Specchi in 1706.

What we can see now in the area it's only part of what once was there. The scenic staircase has now been erased by the retaining wall but there are still some traces of the ancient port like the Fontana dei Navigatori and some elements of the background like the S. Girolamo Church and Palazzo Borghese. By walking past these buildings I thought it could have been interesting to give a virtual image of what once was there. The intent is not only and strictly commemorative but also informative as it proposes the possibility to know/ explore/ relate virtually to these vanished spaces. 

Through an accurate historical research and architectural surveys I reconstructed a virtual model of the scene.  The 2D and 3D models are the result of the integration of different methodologies: SFM photogrammetry for existing buildings and elements and perspective reconstruction for those demolished. All the information and models were grouped in a website to make it accessible and to let everyone share knowledge. Go to website .  Plus, as part of the project, I designed specific panels with information and QR codes to be installed in the area. Their location was studied to be exactly the same of the points of view of the VR images in order to give a complete and correct experience to the visitors. 

Location: Roma, Italy

Status: study

Year: 2023

Design: Giulia Lerose