Detection and 3D Reconstruction of Cavities Inside Mount Echia, Naples, Italy

One of the potentialities of muonic radiography consists of the possibility of detecting cavities and reconstructing their shape in 3D, thus giving indications on their position and size. This new methodology can complement the traditional methods of cavity detection (georadar, gravimetry, geoelectrical, etc.) or be used when the latter cannot. We will present the methodology and show the results of a series of measurements carried out at Mount Echia. Mount Echia is a rocky hill in the center of Naples, inhabited since the antiquity. Over the course of history, a large number of cavities has been excavated for various purposes. Data were taken from three different positions inside Mount Echia, profiting from the complex system of tunnels and cavities. The validity of the method was demonstrated by the observation of known cavities through data analysis. Furthermore, an unknown cavity was identified and reconstructed in space. From the information thus obtained on the position of the cavity, it was possible to carry out a new inspection that supports the presence of the cavity.