Abstract

The creation of three dimensional models in archaeology was once the domain of a computer savvy few, but advances in technology and software availability has opened this growing field of data analysis to more researchers. In this paper I address the use of ArchiCAD, an architectural drafting suite, for modeling standing and ruined archaeological structures. This software functions similarly to Architectural AutoCAD but with a friendlier user interface, a seamless three dimensional rendering component, and a photo rectification add-on. This paper presents the use of this software for modeling caravanserais from Northern Pakistan and discusses the difficulties and successes encountered in its use. It also reflects on the sorts of research questions three dimensional models can address and strategies for data collection when architectural modeling is intended in analysis.