DIGITAL DOCUMENTATION OF URBAN HERITAGE IN CAIRO: A STUDY OF BAB AL-BARQIYYA AND ITS APPLICATION TO CONTEMPORARY HERITAGE REHABILITATION | ||
| Journal of Al-Azhar University Engineering Sector | ||
| Articles in Press, Corrected Proof, Available Online from 23 October 2025 PDF (1.36 M) | ||
| Document Type: Original Article | ||
| DOI: 10.21608/auej.2025.395035.1863 | ||
| Author | ||
| Ranad Bahaa Afify* | ||
| Architectural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, May University in Cairo | ||
| Abstract | ||
| This study explores the role of digital technologies in the preservation and documentation of historic urban architecture in Cairo, with a focus on the Fatimid-era gate, Bab al-Barqiyya. As part of the restoration project led by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, Bab al-Barqiyya serves as a critical case study demonstrating the integration of traditional conservation techniques with modern digital tools such as photogrammetry and 3D visualization. The research analyzes the documentation methods applied to the gate’s reconstruction particularly the use of image-based modeling and point cloud analysis and evaluates their effectiveness in identifying structural irregularities and material degradation. To assess the applicability of this approach beyond high-profile conservation efforts, the study applies a simplified digital workflow to a second heritage site which is Bab al-Nasr using accessible softwares and applications such as Polycam and CloudCompare. This practical application is designed to test whether non-specialist practitioners, students, or local heritage teams can use affordable photogrammetry methods for basic documentation and condition assessment. The findings highlight the potential of low-cost, replicable digital workflows in expanding heritage preservation practices, especially in resource-limited environments where advanced AI or laser scanning technologies are not readily available. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| Architectural heritage; photogrammetry; Digital Documentation; image-based modeling; heritage conservation | ||
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