Historic Architecture and Digital Modeling: A Reconstruction of the Choir Screen at Santa Chiara in Naples

Abstract

Once a ubiquitous feature of the medieval church interior, choir screens formed an integral role in the spatial division of medieval churches. Following their widespread destruction after the Counter-Reformation in the 16th century, little trace has been left behind of these structures. Where were they located, what did the look like and ultimately how did they function? This paper aims to answer these questions through a digital reconstruction of the choir screen at Santa Chiara in Naples. The reconstruction is based on ground penetrating radar scans which revealed the underground foundations of the structure. The screen will be recontextualised within a 3-D model of the church, transforming our understanding of this monumental building.