How DJI drones are mapping Toledo’s past for future generations

In Toledo, Spain, where ancient Roman architecture still stands proudly amidst modern life, preserving historical landmarks is both an art and a science. One such landmark, the Alcántara Bridge, has withstood centuries as a symbol of Roman engineering and Toledo’s rich past. Now, DJI’s advanced drone technology is stepping in to digitally preserve this iconic structure, creating a high-definition, 3D model that allows us to explore the bridge in ways never before possible.

To bring this vision to life, a team of drone operators used DJI’s Mavic 3 Enterprise (M3E) to create a digital twin of the Alcántara Bridge. This cutting-edge process allows surveyors and preservationists to document the bridge’s unique features, plan restoration work, and even share data with experts around the world. However, creating a digital model of a structure for this complex is no simple feat. The project required meticulous planning and strategic use of DJI’s drone features to capture the bridge from every possible angle.

Safety and accuracy were top priorities. Before the drone ever took flight, operators coordinated with local authorities, ensuring they adhered to all regulations for flying in historical zones. Equipped with DJI’s smart oblique and obstacle avoidance features, the Mavic 3 Enterprise completed five distinct missions, each designed to capture different aspects of the bridge. From documenting the intricate pillars and arches to manually navigating under the bridge’s expanse, the team collected over 3,500 images, ensuring no detail went unnoticed.

Using DJI Terra, the data was processed into a 3D model within hours — a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. This virtual model is more than just a visual representation; it’s a practical tool that allows engineers, historians, and conservationists to assess the bridge’s condition, detect structural issues early, and plan long-term preservation strategies. For the city of Toledo, this model offers a way to keep their history alive while minimizing the physical impact on the bridge itself.

Thanks to DJI’s drone technology, preserving history doesn’t have to be invasive or labor-intensive. The Mavic 3 Enterprise’s precision capabilities are giving surveyors, engineers, and city planners the resources they need to manage Toledo’s cultural treasures with accuracy and efficiency. This high-tech approach is a testament to how DJI drones are redefining preservation work — not only for Toledo’s Alcántara Bridge but for historical sites around the world.

Want to see this powerful blend of history and tech in action? Watch the video below to learn more about how DJI’s advanced tools and local experts are bringing Toledo’s ancient structures into the digital age.

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