Three-Dimensional Stability of Rocky Slopes and Identification of Hazard Zones in Monuments of Archaeological Interest: Case Study of Ancient Corinth, Greece

The integration of new technologies across scientific disciplines, including rock slope engineering, is increasingly essential. The use of drones and advanced software tools for mapping and analyzing large rocky slopes in detail has become indispensable and highly beneficial. In this context, this paper examines the process and key parameters involved in generating a high-resolution 3D terrain model and evaluating rock-mass stability using advanced software tools (UgCS version 5.5.0, ArcGIS version 3.4.3, Drone2Map version 2024.2.1, DSE version 3.02, and Rocfall3D version 1.014). These technologies facilitate the identification of hazard zones on rocky slopes in monuments of archaeological interest. The evaluation of this modeling approach is conducted at the monolithic rock of Ancient Corinth (Acrocorinth), one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites. This study focuses on assessing its vulnerability to rockfalls and identifying hazard zones. This methodology involves the development of a 3D rockfall analysis system and the implementation of a specialized hazard matrix for the quantitative assessment of rockfall risk. This approach enables the development of a decisive model for mitigating rockfall hazards, ensuring the safety of visitors in high-traffic areas such as major archaeological sites.