From Point Clouds to Cultural Landscapes: Open-Source Machine Learning Applications for Archaeological UAV LiDAR segmentation

Nicodemo Abate, Alessia Frisetti, Gabriele Ciccone, Antonio Minervino Amodio, Maria Sileo, Rosa Lasaponara, Nicola Masini
Abstract:
This study presents an open-source methodological workflow for processing Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) LiDAR data using a probabilistic machine learning algorithm to enhance the visibility and detection of archaeological features under vegetation. The proposed framework combines the 3DMASC plugin for CloudCompare with the Relief Visualization Toolbox (RVT) and QGIS to deliver an accessible, non-programmer-friendly solution for point cloud classification and derivative model enhancement. The methodology is validated through two case studies: the Kastrì-Pandosia site in Epirus, Greece, and Torre Castiglione in Apulia, Italy. Both sites, obscured by dense vegetation, revealed critical archaeological structures—including defensive walls, terraces, and ancient routes—following segmentation and visualization. Results confirm the robustness and replicability of the approach, reinforcing the value of open-source strategies in archaeological remote sensing.
Download:
IMEKO-Metroarchaeo-2025-042.pdf
DOI:
10.21014/tc26-2025.042
Event details
IMEKO TC:
TC26
Event name:
TC26 MetroArcheo Conference 2025
Title:

Metrology for Archaeology and Cultural Heritage

Place:
Bergamo, ITALY
Time:
15 October 2025 - 17 October 2025