Digital Documentation of Built Heritage: 3D Point Cloud Modeling of the Balbanera Church, Ecuador

Today, built heritage faces the threat of deterioration, destruction or disappearance due to various causes, whether of natural origin or caused by human activities. Faced with this challenge, the need arises to use cutting-edge technological tools that enable the exhaustive documentation of each historical architectural element as a measure to preserve the tangible heritage. This research focuses on the HBIM (Historic Building Information Modeling) survey of the Balbanera Church (Colta, Ecuador) for its documentation. This church was selected for its historical relevance and the high level of detail present in both its external structure and its interior. The methodology included the planning of the information survey, in situ survey with 3D laser scanner technology, processing of the data obtained, and generation of the HBIM model. As a result, the model of the Balbanera Church, the quantification of work materials, and the documentation of architectural plans both in plan and elevation were achieved, providing professionals with accurate and reliable information for future interventions to ensure the preservation of the built heritage.