Virtuuvius - Automated Drawing of Temple Architecture According to Vitruvius - the Case of the Temple of Hercules in Celje, Slovenia

Abstract

The study of Roman temple architecture usually involves a multitude of ruins which need to be properly examined and, if possible, reconstructed. The reliability of a reconstruction - how closely it mimics the original situation - is determined by how well a temple is preserved. Fortunately, there is a transcription of a work on architecture written by one of the most notable Roman architects, Vitruvius (late 1st century BCE). Vitruvius' rules define the basic module and all the proportions to the tiniest detail, but also in a broader architectural sense. For proper analysis, interpretation and reconstruction of the temple of Hercules at Celje, Slovenia, it was therefore crucial to take precise measurements and to conduct an analysis of the preserved elements, applied to the Vitruvian canon. Vitruvius' rules and principles concerning individual properties have been transformed into formulas (Microsoft Office Excel 2013), which automatically adjust to each other, according to the basic module. On the basis of these findings, it has been possible to create a reconstruction of the basic elements using the AutoCAD Architecture 2014 software. To link the two methods, i.e. determining the dimensions and 3D drawing of stone blocks, an interface (AutoCAD VBA Macro) is being prepared: Virtuuvius - Virtual Vitruvius.