About us

Lasers hold an important role in the protection and study of Cultural Heritage (CH) Monuments and objects. Their unique properties have enabled their use in a wide range of demanding analytical and conservation applications, since they ensure analysis and interventions with precise control, material selectivity and immediate feedback. The PHOTONICS FOR HERITAGE SCIENCE (PhoHS) group makes use of state-of-the-art laser facilities at IESL-FORTH and in parallel develops new mobile instruments for analysis, diagnostics and conservation. The vision and the mission of this activity has been to develop state-of-the-art laser-based methods in order to a) enhance our understanding about Cultural Heritage  materials and processes and b) provide versatile and effective tools for the analysis, diagnosis, preservation, and restoration of archaeological/historical objects, works of art, and monuments.

A Heartfelt Goodbye to Vincent Detalle

March 4, 2025
Deeply saddened by the loss of our dearest friend, colleague, and collaborator.

Preserving Cultural Heritage Amidst Climate Change: A Europe Direct Crete Colloquium Featuring discussions on how coastal monuments can be safeguarded

October 31, 2024
Sharing results and insights of the EU project HERACLES.

Starting the OtoLIBS Project

October 07-18, 2024
During a two-week visit, our team analyzes otoliths using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy.

Research -Services

Along with the development of innovative instruments and methods, the researchers of PhoHS at IESL-FORTH, respond to the need for on-site analysis and laser conservation applications: with the development of portable or transportable instrumentation that has been optimized for in situ applications. A long list of related activities includes integrated analytical approaches applied in several field campaigns at museums and archaeological sites in Greece, Europe and the Middle East.

Laser Cleaning

Surface cleaning, based on laser ablation, is particularly effective for the controlled and selective removal of altered over-layers and unwanted accumulations in a variety of CH substrates (i.e. stonework, easel paintings, icons as well as glass and metal objects).

Material Analysis

Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) provides insight on the identity and composition of materials in Cultural Heritage objects.
Raman Spectroscopy gives analytical information on the molecular structure of materials

Spectral Imaging

Spectral Imaging allows the detailed mapping of the individual layers that compose an artwork using a prototype spectral imaging system.

Structural Diagnostics

Detecting changes and monitoring degradation is critical in order to improve and upgrade preventive conservation strategies.

Optoacoustic imaging

Exploit advanced photonic tools to develop new diagnostic methodologies

Instruments

A series of transportable instruments are the technological output of the 20 years of experience which was gained through research and applications of lasers in Cultural Heritage Conservation. Check out all available Instruments here

Series of Training Activities

Optical technologies offer unique prospects as regards conservation and diagnostics in Cultural Heritage (CH), yet their use in real-life conservation treatments is rather sporadic and far from routine, despite a number of brilliant applications, for example the Athens Acropolis conservation campaigns. Among the main reasons for the rare use of lasers in conservation practice is the lack of training opportunities. The OPTO-CH series of summer courses have as main goal to present advanced optical technologies in CH science and conservation to scientists and young conservation professionals within a training setting that will combine lectures from experts with practical hands-on experimental sessions that will enable participants to get a real feeling on how to use a number of advanced optical tools for analysis and characterisation of materials and surfaces.
GR- CH Dialogues #5 Mr Guo Hong

China and Greece Dialogues on Heritage Research and Conservation

December 12,2022

December 14, 2022
DIALOGUE 05: Mr Guo Hong ,University of Science and Technology Beijing, China
“Restoration research of Drepung Monastery murals in Tibet”

CH&GR dialogues AKarydas

China and Greece Dialogues on Heritage Research and Conservation

November 15,2022

November 24, 2022
DIALOGUE 04: Andreas Germanos Karydas ,NCSR “Demokritos”, Greece & CNR, -ISPC, Italy
“MA-XRF imaging  of Greek Antiquities”.

China and Greece Dialogues on Heritage Research and Conservation

September 26,2022

September 28, 2022
DIALOGUE 03: Elissavet KAVOULAKI, Ephorate of Antiquities of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
“Palace of Knossos: Conservation – restoration works and recent strategies within the HERACLES EU project”.