Visions of Volterra invites you to explore the groundbreaking digital preservation efforts in this historic Italian city, where technology and heritage converge to safeguard the past for future generations. At the heart of the exhibit is the recently discovered Roman Amphitheater, a 1st-century structure unearthed by chance during restoration work in 2015. Still being excavated by the Soprintendenza per l’Archeologia, le Belle Arti e il Paesaggio per le province di Pisa e Livorno, this ancient site—capable of holding 10,000 spectators—offers new insights into Roman engineering, entertainment, and Volterra’s role in antiquity.
Through innovative digital tools like drones, photogrammetry, and terrestrial laser scanning, researchers from the Volterra-Detroit Foundation and Case Technologies, in collaboration with Autodesk, have created high-resolution 3D models and digital reconstructions of Volterra’s ancient and modern landmarks. These models, displayed alongside 3D-printed scale replicas and rare antiquities, uncover new information about Roman design principles, challenging traditional notions of architecture. More than just a historical retrospective, Visions of Volterra explores the intersection of tradition and innovation, demonstrating how digital technologies can unlock hidden layers of the past while safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations.
On view from March 14 through May 18, 2025 by appointment | please write to desk.iicla@esteri.it to schedule your visit.
OPENING EVENT
Thursday, March 13 2025 | 6:00 pm
ITALIAN CULTURAL INSTIUTE, LOS ANGELES
1023 Hilgard Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90024
On the occasion of the exhibition opening, join us for a conversation on the role of digital preservation in protecting our shared history against the growing threats of climate change, natural disasters, and time. Moderated by Tristan Randall, Strategic Projects Executive, Business Development at Autodesk, the panel discussion will feature Dr. Elena Sorge, Project Manager for the Excavations at the Amphitheatre in Volterra, Nicolas Mangon, VP AEC Strategy & Marketing at Autodesk and Wladek Fuchs, Executive Director, Volterra-Detroit Foundation.
