Using visualization in the archaeological excavations of a pre-Inca temple in Peru

Abstract

We describe an on-going project that is using visualization as a indispensable tool for the restoration of the disintegrated ceiling of a ritual precinct that was recently discovered during archaeological excavations of a group of pre-Inca temples in Peru. This ceiling is unique - it is the only one ever found that has pictures painted on it, rather than being simply white-washed. The restoration of the ceiling, and the recovery of these iconographic figures will provide an unprecedented opportunity to study the culture of the Moche people who build and used these temples.