300th anniversary of the São João del Rei Mother Church: historiography based on 3D modelling

Abstract

The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar in São João del Rei presents two primary phases of construction: the first from 1721, when construction began, while the second phase, corresponding to the expansion of the cathedral, dates from 1820. The resulting hybrid structure shows the influence of at least three architectural styles: baroque, rococo and neoclassical, while a number of persistent problems can be traced to the fact that the second structure was built on top of the original one. Given the scarce historical documentation available, the project has drawn on the highly detailed information provided by laser scanning and photogrammetry technology. The article details this process, illustrating the standards that must be met when collecting such historical information, to ensure that it can serve as the underpinnings for projects of restoration and historiographical studies. While the technology in question is frequently used in a number of countries, in Brazil its application is still limited. The study is part of the celebration of the 300^th anniversary of the cathedral’s construction.