GPR survey for the reconstruction of the canalization system beneath the orchestra level of the Ancient Theatre of Catania (Italy)
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Abstract
Geophysical prospecting was carried out with GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar) at the orchestra floor of the Ancient Theatre in Catania (Italy) to reconstruct the lithological pattern of the substrate and to identify cavities and/or channels used in the past for the drainage of rainwater or groundwater. On the basis of the data acquired, the existence of pre‑existing north‑south oriented drainage channels below the orchestra floor can be confirmed, now partly blocked by sediments that have accumulated over the centuries. In particular, interpretation of radar sections indicated the occurrence, in the center of the orchestra, of a masonry vault one meter deep, supported laterally by jambs. It has been interpreted as a channel that should have been used to drain groundwater, since it appears connected towards the south with another channel, still visible below the stage, almost completely filled with debris. Another channel probably occurs at the same depth in the eastern sector of the orchestra.
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