IN-PERSON London Heritages. Section A

Abstract

Based on our general method of using the design of abstract forms to translate hypotheses of archaeology into digital space, we increased the spectrum by the perception of time within a research project funded by the Gerda Henkel Foundation. The amphitheatre in Durrës, Albania has a unique positioning in the topography, in that it does not use it to build symmetrically, but rather turns in relation to the symmetry. The resulting access routes are complicated and sometimes extremely long. Our approach of making the space dynamically experienceable as a narrative, is intended to form the basis for a compelling theoretical angle on the dimension of the perception of time. Through the comparative presentation of different access routes in contrast to the regular external appearance, we see the studies as a methodological contribution to a new way of looking at architecture. The hypothesis is based on the collaboration between design and archaeology, whose representatives have for decades put forward a multitude of hypotheses about the amphitheatre. These hypotheses are based on better preserved amphitheatres, especially Pula and Salona. As usual, this compilation produced both expected and unexpected questions, and this already merely with regard to the spatial arrangement of the primary architectural components. In this project, too, the scientifically justifiable statement does not go beyond the spatial disposition. This project also takes place in constant reciprocal interaction of hypothesis, spatial evaluation, enquiry, new research, new hypothesis, etc., extended by the unconventional consequences for construction and circulation due to the topographical peculiarity. As a result, we intend that the complexity of cultural exchange will be significantly enhanced by this contribution and that it will contribute to the methodologies of the digital humanities through the visualisation technology of simulated movement through space in real time.