DECUMANUS MAXIMUS

Orientation System and Site Markers for Archaeological Park, Aguntum

SITE DEMARCATION:

The Decumanus called the East-West axis,  was used as a line of sight created through the observation of celestial motion. The Decumanus divided the sky , half into day and half into the night.

The excavation site is a subtle Aguntum Landmark.

The term Decumanus is used here to refer to a main axis of orientation. The aim of this project is to transform the B100 and its side street to mirror the use of the Decumanus Maximus, making is once again the main road on a visual level. This route will fade out from the Decumanus Maximus along an axis of light, of which the edges are accented and illuminated. Traveling on the B100, there is a strong effect at night. By day, the cylindrical elements of the photovoltaic solar lights can be seen, and hint to the secondary theme of the excavation site: Technology / Energy / Water Production. For visitors to the archaeological park, there is a secondary value to the installation, as functional lighting. The solar lights are nearly 100% self-sufficient.

Creating a gravel D.M. appears both creatively and functionally in conflict. The fortified, approximately 2 meter wide asphalt surface will be replaced. The remaining width of the road  will be dismantled and planted. The asphalt will not last as that used in ancient construction. The asphalt elements are not to be understood as a reconstruction, rather as an interpretation. To extend the line of sight according to the previous course of the main axis, demolition of the old excavation building, and a sculpting of the slope is proposed.
An underpass of the B100 at the site of the old excavation house is to act as a stage.

ORIENTATION SYSTEM

The Archaeological Park extends in two dimensions, built horizontal, nestled in the landscape. The perception of such an excavation site corresponds to a flat representation and analysis. In order to avoid visual impairment, the control system runs consistently on the horizontal axis.

Local information (house number, house name) is incorporated along the course of the main road in the form of sprayed elements. To demarcate house types along the road, individual asphalt elements are inserted in the ground.

The pattern of flow through the site is shaped by the visitor. Parking is available in proximity to an information board, displaying a general plan that refers visitors to the museum. There, folders of information regarding the site are available. New signs installed on the B100 direct passersby to the excavation site.

LAMP / SOCKET

The actual site marker / PIN is a highly efficient, futuristic high-tech light. The elements are both environmentally friendly,  and express a slight air of science fiction. The photovoltaic and LED light technology has minimal operating and maintenance costs.

Product: hei solar light ™