Methods and applications of 3D digital reconstructions of Roman structures: the fishponds of maritime villas in southern Latium

The Tyrrhenian coast of central Italy was featured with a large quantity of luxury maritime villas wanted by the Roman élite. In southern Latium, a considerable number of villas were equipped with marine fishponds, which were subject to a particular design system, formed by several tanks connected to each other and containing different species of fish. These fishponds were built not only for ornamental purposes but also as real fish farming centres which ensured fresh fish for internal consumption, as well as for local market demand. This article discusses the potential value of a new approach to Roman marine fishponds, by involving the application of digital methodologies. It will be discussed that although most of the structures have not been subjected to archaeological investigations, through the integration of different methodologies it is possible to obtain hypothetical data on different matters. The digital approach by the integration of different methodologies aims to provide an update of the plans and the production of 3D Models for a better analysis, interpretation and reconstruction of tangible and intangible aspects of the marine fishponds. Furthermore, it is shown how, through the calculations that can be inferred from 3D reconstructions, and on the basis of theoretical models carried out by scholarship, that it is possible to attempt to quantify the average production capacity of these structures as well as quantifying the average labour costs; this is based on the calculation of cubic meters of hydraulic concrete used for the construction of the basins.