Virtual 3D reconstruction of a domestic space in Selinunte (Sicily) from the 5th century BC: opportunities and challenges

While carrying out stratigraphic excavations in the northern part of the Greek city, a building was discovered that most probably was destroyed during the Carthaginian attack of 409 BC. The particular importance of this discovery lies in the almost undisturbed state of the ruins and the objects within the structure, which were crushed and sealed by the collapsed roof. The building was not completely excavated; the focus was on a room of approximately 23 m², interpreted as a domestic space, based on two built-in hearths and a large variety of household goods. The exceptional state of preservation of the room and its objects at the time of its destruction made this space ideal for scientific and graphic reconstruction. Thus, a virtual 3D reconstruction was developed to reliably reproduce an ordinary living space within a Greek town during the 5th century BC for the scientific and general communities. These finds also enable the assessment of the viability of rather crude ideas regarding the appearance of these living spaces and their function. This paper will discuss the theoretical reasoning and methodological approach behind this endeavour.