Rappresentazione di cartografia storica della città di Sassari in ambiente GIS Open Source

The aim of this research is to evaluate a methodology for the analysis of historical maps by applying open source GIS software.Maps of “Città di Sassari” has been first collected, then, after proper editing using a graphic software, processed by a GIS (Geographic Information System). By comparing those systems with updated new maps has been possible to get final results. The cartography used is the one of “Città di Sassari” currently known. Both measured and derived maps were have been used. The former obtained through measurements and surveys performed on the ground by topographers while the latter through a series of re-elaborations performed by cartographers. As redards historical cartography we wanted to understand what was detected with elementary topographic tools, even before the advent of aerophotogrammetric technique.Before entering into the real GIS, are presented those that are the basic maps that represent Sardinia, as well as a list, with related description, of the main detectors / cartographers and maps of Sassari.The feasibility of employing an Open source software has been also part of the research except for the IT tools of office automation. The reason of such decision could be addressed almost exclusively by economic reasons, because studies about historical cartography are conducted mainly in academic fields, where, unfortunately, is almost lack of funds.The research has had positive results, showing that free software can be used without reservations.