Telling for Images. The “Court of Lights” of Piazza Scaravilli in Bologna

Video mapping is based on a process consisting of an initial phase of mapping spatial objects followed by their projection into the mapped space. This multimedia technology becomes a quality experience when it is created from a precise 3D model of the space to be mapped and visual effects and illusions are used to make the space totally immersive, to the exclusion of the mere character of performance. This paper focuses on the case study of the “Court of Lights” in Piazza Scaravilli in Bologna (Italy). This intervention was developed with the aim of creating a persistent, livable, and viable space, both day and night, thanks to the potentials of video mapping. In this case, the mapping concerns the pre-programmed visualization dedicated to the history of the University of Bologna, from its foundation in medieval era until today, through places and people. The mapping of this space bases its success on the possibility of acquiring in advance the geometry of the space to be projected, thanks to high precision photogrammetric survey methods. Using sophisticated technologies in the field of animation and mapping software, as well as in that of projection devices, and thanks to the wise control of light, it is possible to create effects of great visual impact, especially when the projection surface of images and videos is part of the architectural world.