Il protocollo operativo/Operating protocols

An archaeometric multidisciplinary approach formed the basis for a research methodology designed to study the system from historical, typological, morphological, dimensional and architectural points of view. In-depth studies concerned a selection of archaeological and minero-petrographic cases. Interdisciplinary cooperation between Restoration, Minero-Petrographic Diagnostics, Surveying and Geomatics made it possible to codify construction principles through specific evaluations and to read and interpret structures from the point of view of the materials used. Cross-referencing the information made it possible to classify and chronologically organise the masonry techniques used in Sardinia between the 12th and 15th centuries. Indirect reconnaissance (through the consultation of published and archived sources) and direct reconnaissance (through case studies and minero-petrographic analyses of mortals and plasters) concerned various scales (territorial, architectural and detailed). These studies were the starting point of the research. The large quantity and heterogeneity of informatio during the different research stages made it necessary to develop a dedicated cataloguing system to store, cross-reference and manage the information. This instrument proved essential for systematising the data collected and achieving a more effective integration of the results stemming from specialist studies and the territorial interpretation of synchronic and diachronic historical-architectural and technical-construction issues. By observing the repetition of the characteristics identified, it was possible to statistically determine the recurring features attributable to a common building culture. These results made it possible to define architectural and masonry chrono-types. Concerning architectural chrono-types, knowledge-gathering processes – developed in a recursive abductive manner – contributed to creating a system summarising the typological variety associated with the structure’s chronology. Regarding masonry chrono-types, materials were classified according to the configuration of the masonry structures and then ordered according to presumed dating parameters. In short, the fortified heritage analysed consists of some 100 sites distributed throughout the region, 74 of which can still be seen today due to their ability to withstand the passage of time in varying degrees. At least one masonry sample was collected from the foundations of each structure, forming a total of 94 samples; 45 mortar samples were also analysed.