Application of satellite images for detection of illegal excavation in Puglia (Italy)

Abstract

The research was conducted on the whole region of Puglia (South of Italy), with particular attention to areas of Tavoliere - Foggia (Arpi, Salapia, Siponto). The purpose is to provide an overview on the phenomenon of illegal excavations in Apulia through consultation, photo-interpretation, georeferencing systematic aerial photographs, historical and recent, and satellite images. In particular, the systematic work of photo-interpretation was carried out on strips of historical aerial photo, orthophotos and finally on satellite images through open source programs such as Google Earth, Bing Maps, Flash Earth.