Within the scope of the project Nottingham Caves Survey, ancient oubliettes have been recorded three-dimensionally by laser scanning and visualised in 3D models. The archaeologists inferred new insights from the surveys. People believe that Robin Hood has been held captive in an oubliette located (now the Galleries of Justice).
The Nottingham Caves Survey is realized by archaeologists of the University of Nottingham. The project, which is lasting two years, costs about £250,000 and has been funded by the Greater Nottingahm Partnership, East Midlands Development Agency, English Heritage, the University of Nottingham and Nottingham City Council.
Experts from Trent ans Peak Archaeology used a 3D laser scanner to record ca. 450 sandstone caves around Nottingham. From this 3D data, a virtual presentation can be generated. There will be no actual excavations; only laser scanning shall be employed.
The aim of the project is to increase the tourist potential of these sites. By the virtual presentation of the caves, visitors are not exposed to danger (health hazards etc.) since the access to these caves is very difficult.
The last major survey of the city’s caves took place in 1980 when British Global Survey (BGS) documented the caves under Nottingham. During the Nottingham Caves Survey, this information will be updated. At the end of the project, the team will decide which caves will be opened or not.
The cave system under Nottingham dates back to the medieval period and earlier.They have been used as dungeons, tanneries, beer cellars, cess-pits and air-raid shelters.
You will find further videos on the project's Youtube channel.
Source: BBC (http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/nottingham/hi/people_and_places/history/newsid_8630000/8630926.stm)