Post date: Dec 07, 2015 2:59:35 PM
The VPC has been collecting data for over 20 years on the bell towers Venice and has recorded data on a A total of 157 bells. At each tower location the researchers documented external, internal and bell data including measurements, inscriptions, observable conditions and videos. There were still many towers unvisited which means there was an unknown grand total of bells, and with each tower often contained an average of four bells, more intensive studies needed to be completed in order to have a finalized and updated database. On these categories, information was collected, but there is only partial information for each bell. Of the 157 bells documented, only 7 bells had documented photographs and audio data available to the public. Not only is the data incomplete, most of it is outdated as there have been many advancements in technology.
As for preservation conditions, 43 bells were given overall rating of their outer shell based corrosion, cracks, and if they could still be used. Only 14 of these 43 bells were deemed to be “good and usable” based on the opinions of the researchers. Data collection on specific bell parts was also uneven, with many details missing. For example, data for only 57 of the bells’ clappers were recorded, incidentally, only about a third were rated as in good condition. Clearly, more data collection is needed, and what has been collected suggests preservation is needed.