San Vitale Challenge: automatic reconstruction of ancient glass fragments
Researchers have investigated the advantages and practical uses of Artificial Intelligence algorithms in various contexts, and in particular in cultural heritage , since it assumes a paramount role in fostering cultural, historical, and economic progress within our societies.
The San Vitale church , constructed in the sixth century , has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. When sunlight passed through the intricate colored windows , casting its luminance upon the renowned mosaics depicting Christian iconography that adorn the interior walls and ceilings, it engendered an ambiance distinct from the experience we are familiar with today.
Unfortunately, the stained glass windows have fallen to the ground and nothing remains of the original supporting structure , which could have been made of wood like other churches in Ravenna or, more likely, in plaster like Byzantine churches on the eastern coasts of the Mediterranean Sea.
Recently, archaeologists have recovered the fragments of these stained glass windows. These disks are a unicum in Italy , while similar findings dated back to the sixth century are known in Egypt and the Middle East.
