Integration of infrared thermography and high-frequency electromagnetic methods in archaeological surveys

The Cultural Heritage (CH) forms a tangible link to the past because antique objects provide insights into the lives of their creators and so help to reconstruct the evolution of the human specie. CH also represents an element of cultural identity and a source of inspiration and creativity for present and future generations. Thus, its safeguard is dutiful. Conservation of art treasures is a serious problem since all objects change or deteriorate over time mainly due to natural forces of decay. Small objects can be kept in controlled environment, while wall paintings in buildings and monuments of historical interest, which may be exposed to adverse atmospheric conditions, are very difficult to preserve. For conservation and preservation of our inestimable cultural patrimony it is essential the identification of the causes of degradation and understanding of the relations cause/effect