Mapping the Tower of Marianos in Agios Vasilios

Field journal documenting the aerial survey of the historic Byzantine Tower of Marianos near Agios Vasilios and Olynthos.

The Byzantine Tower of Marianos, standing near the ancient site of Olynthos, is a remarkable monument of medieval defense. In 2006, we set out to document its structural conservation and state.

Operating the HeliCam here was relatively straightforward compared to mountainous fortresses, as the surrounding terrain is flat agricultural plain. This allowed us to fly close to the tower's walls to inspect the stone and mortar masonry.

Interestingly, during our flight, we observed several storks nesting on the flat rooftop edge, adding a layer of natural history to our archaeological survey.

Overview of Mapping the Tower of Marianos in Agios Vasilios

An aerial view of the Byzantine Tower of Marianos, showing the surrounding countryside, a village edge, and the flight crew parked along a dirt road.

An aerial view showing the side facade of the Tower of Marianos, looking out over the surrounding agricultural plains and wetlands.

Elevated view of a historic rectangular stone tower with vertical buttresses, situated in a rural agricultural landscape next to a dirt road.

Technical Specs

Date: June 2006
Location: Ag. Vasilios, Greece
Technology: Custom-built HeliCam Remote-Controlled Helicopter
Imaging: DSLR Payload with Multi-Axis Gimbal Stabilization