The objective of the project was the analysis of multiple surface swab samples from the Underground Museum of the Patriarchate of Alexandria, aiming to understand the microbial processes that may affect historical materials and to develop targeted conservation strategies.
Metagenomic analysis was applied, enabling the detection of microbial communities at species level and the identification of functional characteristics related to biodegradation, biofilm formation, pigment production, and material corrosion.
All samples were analyzed in our laboratory in Thessaloniki, which is accredited according to ISO 17025. This accreditation ensures that the results are based on internationally recognized standards of quality, accuracy, and reproducibility—critical elements for decision-making in cultural heritage conservation.
This activity constitutes a deliverable of the EVLOGON project, an interdisciplinary initiative that combines metagenomics, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, and conservation for the study and protection of Christian Cultural Heritage.
This project represents an important step toward integrating advanced molecular technologies and data-driven approaches into cultural heritage protection, contributing to the long-term preservation of historic sites and materials.
