Digital Archiving and Preservation of Historical Bridges: Addressing Environmental Challenges

Abstract

Documenting historical buildings in digital environments is crucial for preserving their value and passing on cultural heritage to future generations. Studies of historical bridges face significant challenges due to the difficulty of accessing bridge elements and the changes caused by surrounding water sources. This study aims to investigate the historical On Gözlü (Ten-Eyed) Bridge in Diyarbakır and to provide documentation strategies for its immediate surroundings. The study adopts a mixed research approach in which both qualitative and quantitative data are considered together. The methodology consists of five stages. The first stage involves identifying existing studies and establishing a conceptual framework related to the bridge. The second stage involves fieldwork around the bridge and its surroundings. The third stage focuses on analysing the data obtained from the fieldwork and examining the local environment. The fourth stage focuses on developing strategies for the conservation and documentation of the bridge. The fifth stage evaluates changes in the surrounding area and discusses strategies for documenting difficult-to-access structures such as the bridge. In this context, the first and last stages of the study are based on qualitative research, while the second, third, and fourth stages include quantitative research. Over a period of approximately twenty years, changes around the bridge have been documented, revealing ongoing efforts to remove new multi-story buildings as part of its preservation. The resulting model provides a detailed archive of the bridge’s current condition for future generations. In conclusion, new strategies can be developed for other challenging bridges, using advancing technology for effective conservation. © 2025 Pontificia Universidade Catolica de Campinas. All rights reserved.