Digital Frescos - Renewing a Historic Church with VersaCamm

The renovated church

Digital Frescos
Renewing a Historic Church with VersaCAMM

GIULIANOVA LIDO, ITALY - For years, the “Natività di Maria Vergine” church in Giulianova Lido (TE) on the Adriatic Coast of Italy sat in decline.

Built in 1911, the church once featured hand painting throughout the décor and a beautiful mosaic as well. While these decorative elements were excluded from the restoration due to the extreme damage they had weathered, a new decorative feature was added to recapture the church’s original splendor: a digitally printed fresco.

The renovated church

To create the fresco, the project’s designers followed a proposal from Roland DG Mid Europe and called on Roland’s Acquaviva Picena staff for assistance with the production.

The proposed solution used Shockline “Fresco” media to create a digital fresco with Roland’s VersaCAMM SP-540V and ECO-SOL MAX inks.

Applying the ancient writing

With this method, the inks are transferred from the media to walls and other surfaces that soak up water. The application, called PS Fresco, creates a digital fresco that replicates the appearance of an authentic fresco.

One of the most important aspects of the renovation was to reproduce the ancient inscription, writing discovered through historic references and other resources, once featured in the church apse.

After a thorough analysis, the technicians proceeded to choose the right color from the wide gamut available through Roland VersaCAMM technology. The results were exceptional thanks to the quality of the printing and the skill of the operators.

The opening ceremony was a huge success as the community embraced its historic landmark once again. Church priests were equally satisfied with the results which they said exceeded all expectations.

The opening ceremony