3D modelling of the oldest olive tree of the world

Abstract

The Monumental Olive Tree of Vouves, known as the oldest olive tree in the World is an important part of our cultural heritage. Branches from this olive tree were used for the wreath bestowed upon the winners in the Olympic Games in Beijing and Athens and the winners of the Classic Marathon in Kalimarmaron Stadium. This ancient tree became an inspiration for sending messages of peace and hope worldwide. The process of developing a geometrically accurate 3D model of the Monumental Olive Tree of Vouves, using modern reverse engineering techniques is described in this paper and its complexity is analysed and compared to other scanned objects. The derived 3D model allows for a twofold employment: a) the creation of a virtual model for internet dissemination activities, and b) the enabling of enhanced possibilities for scientific study and analysis of the tree.