Microclimate Monitoring Using Wireless Sensors for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage: The Case of the Holy Cross Hermitage in Olympus Area, Greece

Abstract

This work presents an approach for wirelessly monitoring the indoor temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration parameters affecting the microclimate of the Holy Cross hermitage, which extends into a small cave located in the Olympus area of Greece and maintains remarkable wall paintings dated back to 1339 A.D. The results indicate that the methodology applied was effective enough in maintaining a long-term monitoring process and, as a result, comprehending the ambient conditions of the hermitage with regard to its microclimate. In this context, it would be possible to identify any imminent hazards in time and therefore plan the required conservation actions.

Keywords

• cultural heritage
• wireless sensors
• monitoring
• microclimate
• temperature
• humidity