Integrated Digital Survey Methodologies for Late Medieval Fortifications in Tuscany: The Fortress of Malmantile Mediterranean Architectural Heritage,

The essay explores the fortress of Malmantile, an important late medieval fortification located in the municipality of Lastra a Signa, on the hill that separates the Arno valley from the Val di Pesa. The fortress, initially built as a military outpost and later developed into a settlement, retains its original layout and presents a significant example of defensive architecture. Historical studies have documented its construction in the 14th and 15th centuries, outlining the strategic importance of the fortification in defense of the Florentine Republic, with its design typical of the "Terre Nuove." Its defensive architecture is linked to contemporary fortifications and the medieval tradition. The survey project of the fortress was conducted over multiple campaigns from 2009 to 2021, utilizing a combination of advanced techniques such as laser scanning, 2D and 3D photogrammetry, and drones. The integrated digital survey allowed for the precise representation of the fortress's perimeter walls and structural features, with particular focus on the detailed documentation of the superstructures, masonry layers, and deteriorations. The use of advanced technologies enabled the creation of a complete geometric model, useful for historical, architectural, and comparative analyses with iconographic representations, such as Leonardo da Vinci's landscape drawing. The innovation lies in the combination of various survey technologies to create a detailed digital model of the fortress. The use of modern tools such as the Leica HDS6000 and the Z+F 5006 laser scanner, along with drone flights for aerial photogrammetry, produced precise and comprehensive documentation that integrates historical, architectural, and geospatial information. Furthermore, the exploration of similarities between the fortress of Malmantile and Leonardo da Vinci's representations provides an original contribution to understanding the site's history. The survey and study of the Malmantile fortress significantly contribute to the knowledge of Tuscan medieval fortifications, highlighting both the continuity of defensive layouts and the evolution of construction techniques. The comparative analysis with the Leonardo drawing stimulates new reflections on architectural influences and the potential visits of Leonardo to the site. This work not only enriches the historical and architectural understanding of the period but also provides an important tool for the conservation and enhancement of cultural heritage.