Numerical modelling of Orbetello lagoon circulation in the XVIII century

This article presents the hindcasts of Orbetello lagoon circulation in different scenarios starting from the XVIII° century. The main objective of this work has been the quantification of water exchanges between lagoon and sea during the centuries. The hindcasts are obtained by means of numerical simulations. The simulations have been conducted by means of a numerical model validated by using field measurements carried out in the present scenario. Once the model has been validated, the bathymetry has been changed according to the morphology of the different past scenarios and the water exchange between lagoon and the sea has been assessed. The comparison of the water exchange in the different scenarios is provided and discussed, providing the necessary background knowledge to support the present management of the lagoon based on the lesson learned from the past.