Realising multiphase archaeological reconstruction models: 3D printing the Old Minster, Winchester

Abstract

This article presents an exploration of the processes used in the development of a 3D printed model of an early medieval church building, Winchester's Old Minster (c.640-1093), establishing a process for the representation of multi-phase buildings in both digital and 3D-printed media. The multi-phase case study lends to itself to enhancing pedagogical methods as well as academic uses such as comparative analysis and scrutinising architectural categorisation. Through the pursuit of this process, it is found that the further publication of reconstructed elevation heights for archaeological is needed. The purpose of the exercise was to test the applicability of 3D printing for the purposes of the representation of heritage assets and develop methodologies.