Remote Sensing Study of Rivers and Lagoons in the Veneto Region

This thesis focuses on the application of remote sensing and geophysical techniques to the documentation and preservation of cultural heritage (CH) in rivers and lagoons of the Veneto Region. This region has a lot of submerged or buried CH objects like bridges, shipwrecks, harbor infrastructures - elements that are challenging to detect. The research employs a range of advanced tools and methods including satellite imagery, aerial photogrammetry, and geophysical surveys. These methods are used to identify submerged objects, map archaeological contexts, and assess their condition. All datasets (remote sensing, geophysical survey, historical maps, archaeological data ) were integrated in GIS. Fieldwork was conducted in 2024-2025, and involved scanning approximately 70 km of rivers and lagoons, including Brenta and Bacchiglione rivers and areas of Altino. Lio Piccolo, Bibione, San Giuliano and Certosa islands. The project outcomes include creation of a comprehensive GIS database, 3D models of identified CH objects, and usage of digital tools like 3D modeling for promoting valorization of CH objects. The results highlight how the integration of advanced survey techniques within a multidisciplinary framework can contribute to the preservation and sustainable management of underwater cultural heritage in the Veneto Region.