Monitoring cultural heritage sites affected by geohazards

A proactive approach to assessing geo-hazards in cultural heritage sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Choirokoitia in Cyprus, reveals that long-term monitoring can significantly enhance risk assessment and conservation planning. Unlike traditional reactive strategies, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of low-impact techniques like UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) and geodetic methods to monitor structural deformation and surrounding geological contexts. By integrating these technologies, researchers can identify potential geo-hazards early, enabling more sustainable and cost-effective conservation efforts. This case study underscores the importance of understanding the broader geological and geotechnical environment to mitigate risks and prioritize maintenance policies for heritage sites.

Themistocleous, K., & Danezis, C. (2018). Monitoring cultural heritage sites affected by geohazards. Earth Resources and Environmental Remote Sensing/GIS Applications IX, 9. https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2325455