Infrared thermography and Georadar techniques applied to the “Sala delle Nicchie” (Niches Hall) of Palazzo Pitti, Florence (Italy)

Two noninvasive geophysical techniques, infrared thermography and georadar, were used in this studyto investigate the internal walls of the “Sala delle Nicchie” (Niches Hall) of Pitti Palace, in Florence. Theaim of this work was to verify that the original architectonic setting of this Hall was as reported in aplanimetry of anonymous author dated late 1700. This document shows that the “Sala delle Nicchie”was characterized at that time by 10 niches instead of the six that are visible today. Both the infraredthermography and georadar surveys confirmed the presence and location of the niches as indicated inthe planimetry. This study results prove the importance and benefit of using nondestructive techniquesin sites of artistic and historical interest.