FORTH and EACA Join Forces to Advance Archaeological Conservation Through Laser Technologies
The Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH) and the Ephorate of Antiquities of the City of Athens (EACA) are joining forces to apply cutting-edge technologies to the study, restoration, and documentation of archaeological artworks, monuments, and sites.
This partnership utilizes innovative tools, based on laser technology, for material analysis and selective removal of unwanted deposits, which were developed as part of the project “Conservation of Athens antiquities with Laser and Lidar technologies Open to Science and public,” known by the acronym “CALLOS.” The project’s deliverables/outcomes have been implemented at the Open Conservation Laboratory (OCL), established at the EACA facilities on Panos Street in Athens, and are now integral to the daily practices of the Ephorate’s conservators.
Two key systems, TriENA—a portable hybrid material analysis system—and Pallas—a multidimensional laser cleaning system—were designed and developed by researchers at the Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser of FORTH (IESL-FORTH) in collaboration with conservators from the EACA. These systems are currently in widespread use within the EACA and are continually expanding their applications beyond the original goal of studying and conserving stonework.
On May 18, 2026, a memorandum of understanding was signed, establishing a new framework for knowledge transfer and applied research in the field of cultural heritage. By linking research, innovation, and culture, the two organizations are creating new opportunities for the preservation and study of cultural heritage, while also paving the way for collaboration with other FORTH institutes active in this field and participating in the National Research Infrastructure E-RIHS.gr.
