Integrating HBIM and GIS for Flood Risk Assessment and Heritage Conservation

Abstract: In recent years, the frequency of extreme weather events, including stormwater and flooding, has surged, significantly impacting various aspects of human life, infrastructure, and cities. Italy, renowned for its rich cultural heritage, boasts numerous historical sites, many of which are architecturally unique and, due to their locations and conditions, may be particularly susceptible to the effects of extreme weather events. Among Italy’s cultural heritage, the Valentino Castle stands as a significant historical monument. Situated along the banks of the Po River and intricately connected to the river’s underground water system, this iconic castle faces an escalating risk of flooding considering the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. In recent decades, Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) has gained prominence as a vital tool for conserving, restoring, and archiving heritage buildings. Furthermore, an emerging trend involves the integration of HBIM with other disciplines, offering multifaceted insights into heritage conservation. This study endeavours to leverage the integration of HBIM and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to comprehensively understand the impact of different flood scenarios on Valentino Castle (Castello del Valentino). The process involves the utilization of the BIM system for detailed and targeted modelling and information management of Valentino Castle. Subsequently, the GIS system comes into play for the intricate analysis, simulation, and visualization of flooding and stormwater scenarios. The findings derived from this analysis will not only offer valuable guidance but also provide recommendations for flood prevention and enhancement programs, tailored specifically to safeguard the rich architectural heritage of this cherished historical site. It should be noted that Valentino Castle serves as a case study to evaluate and validate the proposed methodology, which is intended to be adaptable and generalizable for application to other cultural heritage sites. Through this HBIM-GIS framework, the study contributes to the preservation and resilience of invaluable cultural heritage in the face of flood risk.