Documentation and analysis of cultural heritage by photogrametric methods and GIS: A case study

Turkey is one of the rare countries with a rich cultural heritage. We have been left with a historic heritage covering the centuries from pre-historic to modern times, which have left the marks of their civilizations on the lands of Anatolia. Therefore these riches should be preserved and left to the next generations with the care such treasures deserve. We have to be aware of the responsibility of leaving these treasures to the next generations as well as displaying them to the tourists. The saving methods of these treasures are supported by modern technology. Using these methods enables us to increase the efficiency and impact of the saving process. Using the advanced technologies in the disciplines other than architecture and by cooperation among the different fields, the future of cultural heritage can be guaranteed in order to save the historical objects and areas. It is necessary to organize the plans and works covering the necessary technical documents of the objects and lands to preserve these objects and lands. With the help of these documents, it will be possible to reach the desired information for the works carried on these objects and lands. The information system generated by the use of digital photogrammetry and Geographical Information System together will enable any person interested in saving the cultural heritage to reach the necessary data. As mentioned above, integration of photogrammetry and GIS leads to the efficient use of data, analysis and presentation opportunities, which are very important for saving the cultural heritage. The aim of this study is to use this technology for the photogrammetric documentation of the cultural heritage and to enable the use of the documentation by using GIS.