3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

The definition of tangible cultural heritage is wide and includes, but is not limited to, landscapes, built heritage, cities, territories, archaeological sites, minor historical centres, urban environments, cities, suburbs, villages, and hamlets (Article 1 of the UNESCO World Heritage Convention). It is widely accepted that the accurate spatial documentation (from 3D integrated metric surveys or from harmonised geospatial datasets) of these assets is crucial for preservation, restoration, historical analysis, revitalisation, and various other applications. Moreover, such 3D documentation could help, with its high accuracy, highly detailed datasets, or multiscale geodatabases, in planning processing involving different stakeholders, citizens, and local communities.

The proposed Topic will deal with advanced spatial documentation techniques, both 2D and 3D, leveraging contemporary geomatics technologies, GeoAI, 3D city models, and Digital Twins. Several specific documentation techniques can be used to achieve accurate and complete documentation of CH including, but not limited to, the following:

• Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs) for high-resolution aerial data acquisition using different sensors (e.g., RGB, thermal, multispectral data) and techniques (e.g., aerial imagery and photogrammetry with the aim to create detailed 2D products and 3D models);
• Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) and MMS (Mobile Mapping System) generating 3D point clouds with different degrees of accuracy and levels of detail;
• Creation and publication of geodatabase from cartographic dataset of national geoportals (standards compliant with geographic information standards);
• GeoAI approaches that use artificial intelligence to analyse, classify, and interpret geospatial data for cultural heritage applications;
•  Novel technology for the metric documentation of CH.

For the application of these geomatics techniques to CH documentation, the following specific aims are considered in this Topic:

• Provide precise and detailed 2D and 3D metric documentation (by means of geomatics techniques acquisitions and approaches) of cultural heritage assets;
• Enable various analyses through the application of modern geomatics techniques and GeoAI;
• Facilitate the creation and use of Digital Twins for cultural heritage sites;
• Support diverse applications, including risk assessment, restoration planning, and heritage management;
• Use the documentation to deal with possible scenarios like risk management, urban planning, sustainable plans, regulatory plans, restoration actions, etc.

We are targeting contributions that achieve the following:

• Present case studies demonstrating the successful application of 2D and 3D metric documentation techniques in cultural heritage;
• Explore innovative methods and technologies for spatial documentation;
• Discuss the integration of documentation data into various analytical and application frameworks;
• Analyse the impact of advanced spatial documentation on risk assessment, restoration planning, and heritage management.

This Topic highlights the importance of advanced spatial documentation in cultural heritage, with the aim of supporting independent researchers, professionals, and national public and private entities in its management, conservation, study, and promotion. By integrating cutting-edge geomatics techniques, GeoAI, and Digital Twins, this research will provide new insights and methodologies for comprehensive documentation, facilitating the various applications crucial for preserving and managing cultural heritage.

Furthermore, the proposed Topic seeks to advance the understanding and application of the available documentation approaches for Cultural Heritage. By fostering interdisciplinary research and collaboration, this Topic also aims to contribute to the development of innovative solutions for the preservation and management of cultural heritage sites, ensuring their protection and appreciation for future generations.

Dr. Lorenzo Teppati Losè
Dr. Elisabetta Colucci
Dr. Arnadi Dhestaratri Murtiyoso
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Applied Sciences applsci	2.9	6.1	2011	15 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Drones drones	5.2	10.0	2017	21.1 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Geomatics geomatics	3.7	4.6	2021	21.6 Days	CHF 1200	Submit
Heritage heritage	2.6	4.3	2018	21.8 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
ISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information ijgi	3.2	6.7	2012	34.9 Days	CHF 1900	Submit
Remote Sensing remotesensing	4.3	9.4	2009	22 Days	CHF 2700	Submit
Sensors sensors	4.0	9.4	2001	17.8 Days	CHF 2600	Submit

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Published Papers (26 papers)

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19 pages, 50753 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Closer Nap-of-the-Object Photogrammetry with Geographic Neural Radiance Fields

by Haoyu Liu, Yizhi Zou, Lu Yang, Huifu Chen, Lei Xia and Lubo Li

Drones 2026, 10(7), 524; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones10070524 - 9 Jul 2026

Abstract

High-precision 3D reconstruction of objects with complex surfaces, such as ancient architecture and detailed artworks, requires close-range image acquisition, which remains challenging for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) systems. The operational proximity of current UAV workflows is often insufficient to capture fine geometric and [...] Read more.

High-precision 3D reconstruction of objects with complex surfaces, such as ancient architecture and detailed artworks, requires close-range image acquisition, which remains challenging for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) systems. The operational proximity of current UAV workflows is often insufficient to capture fine geometric and textural details, limiting high-fidelity digitization. This paper presents a georeferenced NeRF-based UAV acquisition framework for automated waypoint planning and supervised close-proximity execution. The core of the framework is a path-planning module that operates on a metric geometric prior established through Geographic Neural Radiance Fields (Geo-NeRF), which denotes a georeferenced NeRF modeling pipeline rather than a new NeRF architecture or loss function. By generating waypoints directly on this neural representation and optimizing the flight path via a nearest-neighbor strategy, the proposed framework supports close-proximity image acquisition for static targets under controlled conditions. Empirical validation demonstrates improved close-range flight proximity, photographic accuracy, and 3D reconstruction fidelity compared with the evaluated baselines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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30 pages, 57274 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Finding the Features with LiDAR and SAR: Automated Detection of Archaeological Earthworks at Cahokia

by Justin M. Vilbig, Vasit Sagan, Joseph A. Jilek and Cagri Gul

Remote Sens. 2026, 18(13), 2229; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18132229 - 6 Jul 2026

Viewed by 229

Abstract

Archaeological feature detection at complex, mixed-environment sites requires accurate, efficient methods for identifying subtle morphological signatures. This study presents a semi-automated remote sensing pipeline for the detection and delineation of archaeological earthworks at Cahokia Mounds (Illinois, USA), a major Mississippian urban center and [...] Read more.

Archaeological feature detection at complex, mixed-environment sites requires accurate, efficient methods for identifying subtle morphological signatures. This study presents a semi-automated remote sensing pipeline for the detection and delineation of archaeological earthworks at Cahokia Mounds (Illinois, USA), a major Mississippian urban center and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Three LiDAR datasets, two collected via UAV-mounted sensors and one from a piloted aircraft survey, were processed into Digital Terrain Models and transformed into Local Relief Models (LRM). K-means clustering was applied to segment the LRMs into feature classes, followed by contour bounding using the OpenCV library to outline mounds and borrow pits. Additionally, SAR-derived Local Incidence Angle (LIA) rasters from PALSAR-3 and Sentinel-1 were processed through angular deviation mapping to identify slope anomalies associated with archaeological features. Results across all five datasets demonstrate the complementary strengths of LiDAR and SAR: LiDAR excels at resolving elevation-defined features such as mound footprints, while LIA captures directional slope behavior that highlights mound edges, borrow pit rims, and linear features such as causeways. Comparative analysis of LiDAR acquisition frequencies reveals minimal differences in archaeological feature recovery between pulse settings, suggesting that sensor platform choice matters more than power-density tradeoffs for this application. Despite the need for human review to filter modern disturbances and natural false positives, the integrated workflow meaningfully accelerates prospection and reduces interpretive subjectivity. The methods are scalable, site-invariant, and work with open-access data, making them applicable to archaeological landscapes worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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26 pages, 21067 KB  

Open AccessArticle

A UAV–3DGS–VR Workflow for Scenario-Comparable Immersive Review in Heritage Landscapes

by Xintong Li, Wenqi Sheng, Yixuan Tang, Yingwen Yu and Yuyang Peng

Drones 2026, 10(6), 404; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones10060404 - 23 May 2026

Viewed by 380

Abstract

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are widely used for documentation, surveying, and 3D modeling in the built environment, yet their outputs often remain difficult to reuse for immersive comparison of alternative construction scenarios. This study presents a low-cost UAV-to-3DGS-to-VR workflow for constructing scenario-comparable immersive [...] Read more.

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are widely used for documentation, surveying, and 3D modeling in the built environment, yet their outputs often remain difficult to reuse for immersive comparison of alternative construction scenarios. This study presents a low-cost UAV-to-3DGS-to-VR workflow for constructing scenario-comparable immersive environments for built-environment review. The workflow combines multi-angle UAV imagery, point-cloud-based geometric anchoring, 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS), and Unity-based virtual reality (VR) to transform drone-captured reality into a reusable scene for controlled scenario comparison. The workflow is demonstrated in Middenbeemster, the central town of the Beemster polder World Heritage property. One present-condition scene (M0) and three alternative construction scenarios (M1 to M3) were created within a shared spatial reference. Reconstruction quality was assessed using PSNR and SSIM, and the VR scenes were further evaluated through eye-tracking, head-motion recording, and subjective ranking. The results indicate that the workflow can generate visually reliable and directly comparable immersive scenes from UAV data in this case study. Behavioral and subjective findings showed a consistent pattern, with M1 appearing more compatible than M2 and M3 in this pilot evaluation. The study contributes a pilot UAV-based workflow that links reality capture, immersive scenario comparison, and supplementary behavioral evidence within one process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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19 pages, 15468 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Reconstructing the Subterranean Canvas: Digital Re-Contextualization of the Dingjiazha M5 Muraled Tomb in Jiuquan

by Yueying Chen, Wenbin Wei, Jie Xiao and Siqi Zheng

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2026, 15(4), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi15040170 - 13 Apr 2026

Viewed by 740

Abstract

The development of digital technology offers unprecedented opportunities in the documentation, conservation, and interpretation of cultural heritage. Due to its high precision, efficiency, and visualization, this technology provides innovative ways for people to interact with heritage sites. However, its dramatic development introduces several [...] Read more.

The development of digital technology offers unprecedented opportunities in the documentation, conservation, and interpretation of cultural heritage. Due to its high precision, efficiency, and visualization, this technology provides innovative ways for people to interact with heritage sites. However, its dramatic development introduces several problems, including systematic deficiencies in high-precision data acquisition, difficulties in effectively integrating multi-source heterogeneous data, and an inability to reconstruct context during the digital restoration of heritage. Thus, this research proposes a framework of digital re-contextualization, reintegrating the lost physical space, visual information, and mental experience into a coherent whole through triangulation comparison, interpretive restoration, and experiential virtual reconstruction. Taking the Dingjiazha M5 Muraled Tomb as a case study, this article details how this framework was applied to systematically consolidate the archaeological literature and material-sourced spatial data to construct a reliable and verifiable digital replica of the in situ heritage site. This framework shifts the focus from mere data documentation to knowledge production and experiential reconstruction, ensuring the scientific integrity of the restoration and allowing more members of the public to access the heritage site. It also demonstrates how lost historical spaces can be reborn in the digital realm in a way that is both responsible and rich with interpretive depth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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24 pages, 3232 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Public Perception Characteristics of Intangible Cultural Heritage in China from the Perspective of Social Media

by Xing Tu and Yu Xia

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2026, 15(4), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi15040159 - 7 Apr 2026

Viewed by 1082

Abstract

Exploring public awareness, participation, and emotional inclination toward intangible cultural heritage (ICH) clarifies public attitudes and demands toward traditional culture, providing a crucial basis for targeted ICH protection and inheritance. Based on ICH text big data collected from China’s mainstream social media platform [...] Read more.

Exploring public awareness, participation, and emotional inclination toward intangible cultural heritage (ICH) clarifies public attitudes and demands toward traditional culture, providing a crucial basis for targeted ICH protection and inheritance. Based on ICH text big data collected from China’s mainstream social media platform Weibo, this study improves the TF-IDF algorithm, integrates LDA topic analysis for semantic feature mining, and trains a new sentiment analysis model to explore public emotional attitudes and their formation mechanisms. The study is geographically limited to China and covers the entire year of 2023. The results show that: (1) Public ICH perception is multi-dimensional, with close attention to crafts like paper-cutting and traditional Chinese medicine; action-oriented terms reflect dynamic inheritance demands. Public discussions focus on three dimensions: ICH inheritance and development (39%), introduction and promotion (45%), and public experience and participation (16%), with the latter accounting for a low proportion. (2) Public sentiment toward ICH is predominantly positive, with all regions scoring above 0.730 (full score = 1), and Zhejiang (0.751) and Jiangsu (0.750) ranking significantly higher. (3) Spatial econometric analysis reveals marked regional differences in ICH sentiment distribution, mainly affected by three key factors—the number of ICH projects, the number of inheritors, and regional GDP—with regression coefficients of 0.699, 0.632, and 0.458 (p < 0.01). This finding provides a basis for formulating targeted ICH protection strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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25 pages, 20968 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Highly Efficient Deep Learning-Enabled Parameterization and 3D Reconstruction of Traditional Chinese Roof Structures

by Ruisi Ou, Fan Yang, Lili Li, Liyu Cheng, Lile Qian, Ye He, Mingliang Che and Chi Zhang

Sensors 2026, 26(3), 1054; https://doi.org/10.3390/s26031054 - 5 Feb 2026

Viewed by 951

Abstract

Ancient Chinese architecture, with its typical symmetrical structures, curved roofs, and upturned eaves presenting a unique architectural aesthetic, is a treasure of Chinese culture. Recently, unmanned aerial vehicle oblique photogrammetry and laser scanning technology have greatly facilitated the realistic replication of ancient buildings [...] Read more.

Ancient Chinese architecture, with its typical symmetrical structures, curved roofs, and upturned eaves presenting a unique architectural aesthetic, is a treasure of Chinese culture. Recently, unmanned aerial vehicle oblique photogrammetry and laser scanning technology have greatly facilitated the realistic replication of ancient buildings and have become crucial data sources for the HBIM of ancient buildings. However, parameter extraction and geometric model representation are more difficult because of the curved surfaces and upturned eaves of traditional Chinese roofs. As symmetrical features are typical of ancient Chinese architecture, the parameter quantity and modelling difficulty of the model representation can be effectively reduced by recognizing the symmetrical structure of traditional Chinese roofs and using “mirror replication” to quickly generate the other half of the model. Accurate symmetry detection and highly efficient parameter extraction are crucial for the HBIM of traditional Chinese roofs. Therefore, in this study, a deep learning network, namely, TCRSym-Net, is proposed to identify the symmetry from point clouds of traditional Chinese roofs. Each roof point cloud is then relocated and reoriented to obtain longitudinal and cross sections, and parametric modelling scripts are coded in Dynamo to model traditional Chinese roofs via curve lofting and solid Boolean operations. The experimental results reveal that the symmetry detection network is effective for symmetry detection, and five different types of traditional Chinese roofs are successfully recreated, which confirms the dependability of the method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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22 pages, 9173 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Three-Dimensional Model Reconstruction and Layout Optimization in Virtual Museums Using Spatial Intelligence Algorithms: An Analysis of User Visual Impact

by Shuo Zhu, Ying Li, Ye Tang and Heng Yuan

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(3), 1196; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16031196 - 23 Jan 2026

Viewed by 676

Abstract

Digital technology has facilitated substantial progress in the development and implementation of virtual museums. Despite these advancements, current virtual museums continue to face challenges in spatial layout and information presentation, including limited exhibit hierarchy, inefficient spatial organization, low information display efficiency, and sub-optimal [...] Read more.

Digital technology has facilitated substantial progress in the development and implementation of virtual museums. Despite these advancements, current virtual museums continue to face challenges in spatial layout and information presentation, including limited exhibit hierarchy, inefficient spatial organization, low information display efficiency, and sub-optimal visual experiences. To address these challenges, spatial intelligence algorithms are utilized to reconstruct three-dimensional models of selected cultural relics for scene creation and to optimize the spatial layout of virtual museum exhibits. The layout optimization approach considers both symmetrical and asymmetrical arrangements, as well as visual hierarchy and information density. This approach aims to establish a more complex exhibit hierarchy, rational spatial organization, and enhanced visual information display. Comparative experiments and analyses of the visual impact from symmetrical layout optimization, along with other spatial layout optimizations, are conducted. User evaluations and eye-tracking experiments indicate that spatial intelligence-optimized algorithms improve both spatial layout and information display in virtual museums, leading to a more positive user visual experience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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35 pages, 10558 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Cave of Altamira (Spain): UAV-Based SLAM Mapping, Digital Twin and Segmentation-Driven Crack Detection for Preventive Conservation in Paleolithic Rock-Art Environments

by Jorge Angás, Manuel Bea, Carlos Valladares, Cristian Iranzo, Gonzalo Ruiz, Pilar Fatás, Carmen de las Heras, Miguel Ángel Sánchez-Carro, Viola Bruschi, Alfredo Prada and Lucía M. Díaz-González

Drones 2026, 10(1), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones10010073 - 22 Jan 2026

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1882

Abstract

The Cave of Altamira (Spain), a UNESCO World Heritage site, contains one of the most fragile and inaccessible Paleolithic rock-art environments in Europe, where geomatics documentation is constrained not only by severe spatial, lighting and safety limitations but also by conservation-driven restrictions on [...] Read more.

The Cave of Altamira (Spain), a UNESCO World Heritage site, contains one of the most fragile and inaccessible Paleolithic rock-art environments in Europe, where geomatics documentation is constrained not only by severe spatial, lighting and safety limitations but also by conservation-driven restrictions on time, access and operational procedures. This study applies a confined-space UAV equipped with LiDAR-based SLAM navigation to document and assess the stability of the vertical rock wall leading to “La Hoya” Hall, a structurally sensitive sector of the cave. Twelve autonomous and assisted flights were conducted, generating dense LiDAR point clouds and video sequences processed through videogrammetry to produce high-resolution 3D meshes. A Mask R-CNN deep learning model was trained on manually segmented images to explore automated crack detection under variable illumination and viewing conditions. The results reveal active fractures, overhanging blocks and sediment accumulations located on inaccessible ledges, demonstrating the capacity of UAV-SLAM workflows to overcome the limitations of traditional surveys in confined subterranean environments. All datasets were integrated into the DiGHER digital twin platform, enabling traceable storage, multitemporal comparison, and collaborative annotation. Overall, the study demonstrates the feasibility of combining UAV-based SLAM mapping, videogrammetry and deep learning segmentation as a reproducible baseline workflow to inform preventive conservation and future multitemporal monitoring in Paleolithic caves and similarly constrained cultural heritage contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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33 pages, 4376 KB  

Open AccessArticle

A Study of the Technological Features of Bronze Anthropomorphic Sculpture Production from the Jin Dynasty (1115–1234 AD) from the Collection of the IHAE FEB RAS

by Igor Yu Buravlev, Aleksandra V. Balagurova, Denis A. Shashurin, Nikita P. Ivanov and Yuri G. Nikitin

Heritage 2026, 9(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9010033 - 16 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 842

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a comprehensive technological study of three bronze sculptures from the Jin Empire period (1115–1234 AD) from the collection of the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography at the Institute of History, Archaeology and Ethnography of the Peoples of [...] Read more.

This paper presents the results of a comprehensive technological study of three bronze sculptures from the Jin Empire period (1115–1234 AD) from the collection of the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography at the Institute of History, Archaeology and Ethnography of the Peoples of the Far East, Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (IHAE FEB RAS). Using photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), the production techniques were reconstructed, differences in alloy composition were identified, and specific features of the casting processes were determined. Tomographic analysis revealed two fundamentally different manufacturing approaches: a multi-stage technology involving the use of different alloys and the assembly of separately cast elements, and a single-cast technology with a homogeneous structure. Elemental analysis of the three sculptures using EDS demonstrated significant compositional variability—from 21% to 67% copper and from 9% to 69% tin in different parts of the objects—confirming the complexity of the technological processes. An expanded study of 20 bronze sculptures using portable X-ray fluorescence analysis (pXRF) allowed for the identification of four typological alloy groups: classic balanced lead–tin bronzes (Cu 30–58%, Sn 16–23%, Pb 16–28%), high-lead bronzes (Pb up to 52%), high-tin bronzes (Sn up to 30%), and low-tin alloys (Sn less than 11%). The morphological features of the sculptures suggest one of their possible interpretations as ancestor spirits used in ritual practices. The research findings contribute to the study of Jurchen metallurgical traditions and demonstrate the potential of interdisciplinary, non-destructive analytical methods for reconstructing the technological, social, and cultural aspects of medieval Far Eastern societies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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14 pages, 10969 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Glazed Tiles from the 16th Century in the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Prado (Talavera de la Reina, Spain): The Case of the Procession of Virgins and Tercios in Front of Christ

by Josefina García-León, Fernando González-Moreno and Pedro Enrique Collado-Espejo

Heritage 2026, 9(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9010029 - 15 Jan 2026

Viewed by 812

Abstract

The tilework of Talavera de la Reina (Toledo, Spain) was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2019, with one of its landmarks being the tilework preserved in the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Prado, known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of Talavera tilework’. [...] Read more.

The tilework of Talavera de la Reina (Toledo, Spain) was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2019, with one of its landmarks being the tilework preserved in the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Prado, known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of Talavera tilework’. In the entrance portico to the Basilica, we find the ceramic panel of Virgins and Tercios in front of Christ, which should be reinterpreted as two different compositions: virgins in front of Mary and tercios in front of Christ (milites Christi), on which we will focus our research. The analysis of the location and state of conservation of the pieces that currently make up this panel, as well as the existence of pieces in various areas of the Basilica, which most likely belong to each of the compositions, allow us to propose a recomposition and reintegration of elements that would enable a better view and interpretation of these panels. To this end, a scientific methodology and appropriate intervention criteria are proposed to completely recompose this panel through the restoration of all the necessary pieces. This example can be extrapolated to the rest of the altarpieces and interior panels of the Basilica, which would facilitate their proper conservation, interpretation and dissemination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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21 pages, 75033 KB  

Open AccessArticle

From Stones to Screen: Open-Source 3D Modeling and AI Video Generation for Reconstructing the Coëby Necropolis

by Jean-Baptiste Barreau and Philippe Gouézin

Heritage 2026, 9(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage9010024 - 10 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1507

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive digital workflow for the archaeological investigation and heritage enhancement of the Coëby megalithic necropolis (Brittany, France). Dating to the Middle Neolithic, between the 4th and 3rd millennia BC, this chronology is established through stratigraphy, material culture, and radiocarbon [...] Read more.

This study presents a comprehensive digital workflow for the archaeological investigation and heritage enhancement of the Coëby megalithic necropolis (Brittany, France). Dating to the Middle Neolithic, between the 4th and 3rd millennia BC, this chronology is established through stratigraphy, material culture, and radiocarbon dating. Focusing on cairns TRED 8 and TRED 9, which are two excavation units, we combined field archaeology, photogrammetry, and topographic data with open-source 3D geometric modeling to reconstruct the monuments’ original volumes and test construction hypotheses. The methodology leveraged the free software Blender (version 3.0.1) and its Bagapie extension for the procedural simulation of lithic block distribution within the tumular masses, ensuring both metric accuracy and realistic texturing. Beyond static reconstruction, the research explores innovative dynamic and narrative visualization techniques. We employed the FILM model for smooth video interpolation of the construction sequences and utilized the Wan 2.1 AI model to generate immersive video scenes of Neolithic life based on archaeologically informed prompts. The entire process, from data acquisition to final visualization, was conducted using free and open-source tools, guaranteeing full methodological reproducibility and alignment with open science principles. Our results include detailed 3D reconstructions that elucidate the complex architectural sequences of the cairns, as well as dynamic visualizations that enhance the understanding of their construction logic. This study demonstrates the analytical potential of open-source 3D modelling and AI-based visualisation for megalithic archaeology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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37 pages, 46493 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Documenting Change on the SS Thistlegorm, Red Sea, Egypt: Using Underwater Photogrammetry to Record Natural Deterioration and Human Impacts on a World War II Shipwreck

by Simon Brown and Jon C. Henderson

Heritage 2025, 8(12), 504; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8120504 - 28 Nov 2025

Viewed by 5565

Abstract

The SS Thistlegorm, a British World War II cargo vessel sunk in 1941 in the Red Sea, is one of the world’s most visited wreck dives, attracting thousands of divers annually. This popularity has accelerated structural deterioration and artefact loss through unsustainable [...] Read more.

The SS Thistlegorm, a British World War II cargo vessel sunk in 1941 in the Red Sea, is one of the world’s most visited wreck dives, attracting thousands of divers annually. This popularity has accelerated structural deterioration and artefact loss through unsustainable mooring practices, looting, and unintentional diver impacts. The Thistlegorm Project—a collaboration between Alexandria University and the University of Edinburgh—conducted high-resolution underwater photogrammetric surveys in 2017 and 2022 to create the first comprehensive baseline for monitoring change. Comparative analysis revealed both subtle and significant alterations to the wreck and its debris field, including displacement of heavy structures, artefact removal, and expanded mapping of the debris field to 21.9 ha. The study demonstrates how repeat photogrammetry enables precise documentation of deterioration, informs conservation strategies, and supports heritage management in high-traffic dive sites. The Thistlegorm serves as a model for integrating digital recording, site monitoring, and collaborative stewardship of underwater cultural heritage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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19 pages, 2839 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Track by Track: Revealing Sauropod Turning and Lateralised Gait at the West Gold Hill Dinosaur Tracksite (Upper Jurassic, Bluff Sandstone, Colorado)

by Anthony Romilio, Paul C. Murphey, Neffra A. Matthews, Bruce A. Schumacher, Lance D. Murphey, Marcello Toscanini, Parker Boyce and Zach Fitzner

Geomatics 2025, 5(4), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/geomatics5040067 - 20 Nov 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4096

Abstract

Drone photogrammetry and per-step spatial analysis were used to re-evaluate the West Gold Hill Dinosaur Tracksite (Bluff Sandstone, Colorado), which preserves an exceptionally long sauropod pes trackway. Building on earlier segment-based descriptions, we reconstructed the entire succession at millimetre-level resolution and quantified turning [...] Read more.

Drone photogrammetry and per-step spatial analysis were used to re-evaluate the West Gold Hill Dinosaur Tracksite (Bluff Sandstone, Colorado), which preserves an exceptionally long sauropod pes trackway. Building on earlier segment-based descriptions, we reconstructed the entire succession at millimetre-level resolution and quantified turning and gait asymmetry within an integrated digital workflow (UAV photogrammetry, Blender-based landmarking, scripted analysis). Of 134 footprints previously reported, 131 were confidently identified along a mapped path of 95.489 m that records 340° cumulative anticlockwise reorientation. Traditional end-point tortuosity (direct distance/trackway length; DL/TL) yields a moderate ratio of 0.462, whereas our incremental analysis isolates a fully looped subsection (tracks 38–83) with tortuosity of 0.0001 (DL 0.005 m; TL 34.825 m), revealing extreme local curvature that global (end-to-end) measures dilute. Gauge varies substantially along the trackway: the traditional metric (single pes width) averages 32.2% (wide gauge) with numerous medium-gauge representatives, while footprint-specific (‘incremental’) gauge spans 23.1–71.0% (narrow/medium/wide gauges observed within the same trackway). Our tests for asymmetry quantified that left-to-right paces and steps are longer (p = 0.001 and 0.008, respectively), central trackway width is greater (p = 0.043), and pace angulation is lower (p = 0.040) than right-to-left. Behaviourally, these signals are consistent with right-side load-avoidance but remain speculative (alternative explanations may include habitual laterality, local substrate heterogeneity). The study demonstrates how UAV-enabled, fully digital, sequential analyses can recover intra-trackway variability and enhance behavioural understanding of extinct trackmakers from fossil trackways. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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23 pages, 3810 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Investigating Factors Affecting Request Matching in Demand-Responsive Transit Service with Different Fleet Sizes Using a Decision Tree Model

by Sanjay Tandan, Alain Morris Anthony and Hyun Kim

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(22), 12134; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152212134 - 15 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1278

Abstract

Demand-responsive transit (DRT) is a flexible transportation service that adapts routes and schedules based on real-time passenger needs, offering greater convenience than traditional fixed-route systems. DRT systems are highly dynamic and complex. Customer requests are often rejected due to operational constraints. Therefore, it [...] Read more.

Demand-responsive transit (DRT) is a flexible transportation service that adapts routes and schedules based on real-time passenger needs, offering greater convenience than traditional fixed-route systems. DRT systems are highly dynamic and complex. Customer requests are often rejected due to operational constraints. Therefore, it is essential to identify and rank the factors that determine request acceptance or rejection. This study develops a Decision Tree Model (DTM) for vehicle dispatching in DRT, using the Korea National University of Transportation (KNUT) Chungju Campus as the study area. Elecle bicycle origin–destination (OD) data were first used to simulate DRT operations, and the resulting outputs were employed to train the DTM to classify passenger requests as “assign” or “reject.” The model considers key factors such as vehicle capacity, access time, Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA), waiting time, detour factor, and egress time. Based on 5-fold cross-validation, the detour factor was identified as the most influential variable across all fleet configurations, with mean importance values of 0.582 ± 0.055, 0.550 ± 0.047, and 0.447 ± 0.073 for the 1-, 2-, and 3-vehicle scenarios, respectively. The model achieved accuracies of 0.73 ± 0.02, 0.82 ± 0.04, and 0.83 ± 0.07, indicating improved performance with increasing fleet size. Error analysis revealed conservative behavior for one vehicle, balanced performance for two, and liberal over-assignment for three vehicles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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29 pages, 9255 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Exploratory Learning of Amis Indigenous Culture and Local Environments Using Virtual Reality and Drone Technology

by Yu-Jung Wu, Tsu-Jen Ding, Jen-Chu Hsu, Kuo-Liang Ou and Wernhuar Tarng

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(11), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14110441 - 8 Nov 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1639

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) creates immersive environments that allow users to interact with digital content, fostering a sense of presence and engagement comparable to real-world experiences. VR360 technology, combined with affordable head-mounted displays such as Google Cardboard, enhances accessibility and provides an intuitive learning [...] Read more.

Virtual reality (VR) creates immersive environments that allow users to interact with digital content, fostering a sense of presence and engagement comparable to real-world experiences. VR360 technology, combined with affordable head-mounted displays such as Google Cardboard, enhances accessibility and provides an intuitive learning experience. Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are operated through remote control systems and have diverse applications in civilian, commercial, and scientific domains. Taiwan’s Indigenous cultures emphasize environmental conservation, and integrating this knowledge into education supports both biodiversity and cultural preservation. The Amis people, who primarily reside along Taiwan’s eastern coast and central mountain regions, face educational challenges due to geographic isolation and socioeconomic disadvantage. This study integrates VR360 and drone technologies to develop a VR learning system for elementary science education that incorporates Amis culture and local environments. A teaching experiment was conducted to evaluate its impact on learning effectiveness and student responses. Results show that students using the VR system outperformed the control group in cultural and scientific knowledge, experienced reduced cognitive load, and reported greater learning motivation. These findings highlight the potential of VR and drone technologies to improve learning outcomes, promote environmental and cultural awareness, and reduce educational barriers for Indigenous students in remote or socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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20 pages, 4430 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Strategies for Digital Communication of Cliff Inscriptions Based on the Experience Economy and AHP: A Case Study of the Shimen Thirteen Inscriptions

by Hua Wei, Xinyu Jing, Dingbang Luh and Haixia Yan

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(21), 11510; https://doi.org/10.3390/app152111510 - 28 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1112

Abstract

The inherent spatial inaccessibility of cliff inscriptions and the dilemma between preservation and public access have made digital dissemination essential for their legacy. Using the digital design of the “Shimen Thirteen Inscriptions” in Hanzhong as a case study, this research integrates the four-dimensional [...] Read more.

The inherent spatial inaccessibility of cliff inscriptions and the dilemma between preservation and public access have made digital dissemination essential for their legacy. Using the digital design of the “Shimen Thirteen Inscriptions” in Hanzhong as a case study, this research integrates the four-dimensional experience economy model with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to construct a mixed evaluation framework combining expert rational weighting and user perceptual scoring. Weightings were determined by seven experts, and user experience data was collected from 198 questionnaires. The priority for platform optimization was then identified via a “weight × gap” matrix. The results show the following: (1) In digital settings, the experience structure is significantly reordered, with interactivity (44.4%) and immersion (29.8%) taking the lead. (2) Overall platform satisfaction was good (4.05 out of 5.00), but diversity of operations and depth of knowledge emerged as the main shortcomings. (3) A staged optimization scheme of “progressive interaction + hierarchical knowledge delivery” is proposed, which can enhance sustainable dissemination effectiveness without increasing technological barriers. This study proposes a sustainability-oriented strategy prototype for the digital communication of cliff inscriptions, develops second-level constructs for design and measurement support, and employs AHP-based expert weighting to prioritize strategy elements and derive design pathways. The platform functions as a research prototype for academic inquiry and methodological demonstration, without involvement in operational KPI loops or full system deployment. The contribution lies in offering a replicable user experience evaluation grid and a closed-loop optimization process, rather than advancing 3D/AR/VR techniques per se. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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24 pages, 4032 KB  

Open AccessArticle

From Archives to 3D Models: Managing Uncertainty with Paradata in Virtual Heritage

by Andras Horkai

Heritage 2025, 8(10), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8100441 - 21 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2441

Abstract

This article examines the methodological challenges inherent in the digital 3D reconstructions of historical buildings using archival documentation. Unlike photogrammetry or laser scanning, archival-based modeling is crucial for buildings that never existed, no longer exist, or have undergone extensive modifications. Present research insights [...] Read more.

This article examines the methodological challenges inherent in the digital 3D reconstructions of historical buildings using archival documentation. Unlike photogrammetry or laser scanning, archival-based modeling is crucial for buildings that never existed, no longer exist, or have undergone extensive modifications. Present research insights from a pilot educational project where 65 university students reconstructed 70 heritage buildings from Budapest (Hungary) in Archicad based solely on archival sources. In total, 75% of the buildings lacked at least one façade drawing, while nearly 20% showed contradictions between different plans (e.g., floor plan and section). Common challenges were identified, including missing drawings, contradictory plans, stylistic uncertainty, and software constraints, and their patterns were analyzed. To enhance modeling transparency, structured methods for recording paradata were proposed. Findings contribute to methodological rigor in virtual heritage reconstruction and support the reuse of archival models in architectural practice, research, and conservation. This study is among the first to propose a structured paradata framework tailored explicitly to archival-based 3D reconstructions, bridging methodological gaps between educational practice and professional heritage research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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25 pages, 8613 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Underground Space Resources in Ancient Cities from the Perspective of Organic Renewal: A Case Study of Shaoxing Ancient City

by Qiuxiao Chen, Yiduo Qi, Guanjie Xu, Xiuxiu Chen, Xiaoyi Zhang and Hongbo Li

ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf. 2025, 14(10), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijgi14100384 - 1 Oct 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1449

Abstract

China has entered a period of urban renewal, with the focus shifting from large-scale incremental construction to both upgrading existing building quality and adjusting incremental structures. There are three main types of urban renewal: demolition and reconstruction, comprehensive improvement, and organic renewal. The [...] Read more.

China has entered a period of urban renewal, with the focus shifting from large-scale incremental construction to both upgrading existing building quality and adjusting incremental structures. There are three main types of urban renewal: demolition and reconstruction, comprehensive improvement, and organic renewal. The latter systematically optimizes and enhances urban functions, spaces, and culture through gradual renovation methods and is, therefore, suitable for use in ancient cities. To promote organic renewal, the problem of limited space resources must first be addressed, which can be resolved to a certain extent by the moderate development of underground spaces; preliminary evaluations of the development potential are also required. In consideration of the demands of organic renewal, we constructed a novel indicator system for evaluating underground space development potential (USDP) in ancient cities that assesses two dimensions: development demand and development suitability. A multi-factor comprehensive evaluation method was adopted to quantify the indicators of USDP, taking Shaoxing Ancient City (SAC) as the case study. According to the USDP evaluation, SAC can be divided into four kinds of areas: high-potential, general-potential, low-potential, and prohibited development areas. High-potential areas accounted for 16.38% of the total evaluation area and were primarily concentrated in or near key locations: train transit stations (Shaoxing Railway Station), public service facilities, evacuated land, and cultural and tourism facilities around historic districts (Shusheng Guli Historical and Cultural Street). The proposed development strategies for these areas included the interconnection of metro stations, redevelopment of relocation-related and vacated land, construction of underground cultural corridors, and supplementation of parking facilities. For developed underground spaces with low utilization efficiency, functional renewal and management improvement measures were put forward. Our method of evaluating the USDP of ancient cities and the strategies proposed to optimize the utilization of underground space can provide reference examples for SAC and other similar ancient cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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32 pages, 13690 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Surveying a Sacred Landscape: First Steps to a Holistic Documentation of Buddhist Architecture in Dolpo

by Carmen Elisabeth Auer

Heritage 2025, 8(9), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8090385 - 17 Sep 2025

Viewed by 3389

Abstract

Dolpo is a culturally Tibetan region in the inaccessible parts of the Himalayas, where Buddhist and Bon traditions coexist to this day. Due to their religious significance, the temples and monasteries of Dolpo reflect the historical connection to the religious centres of the [...] Read more.

Dolpo is a culturally Tibetan region in the inaccessible parts of the Himalayas, where Buddhist and Bon traditions coexist to this day. Due to their religious significance, the temples and monasteries of Dolpo reflect the historical connection to the religious centres of the Tibetan area. Accordingly, a holistic documentation of the preserved buildings can provide new insights for the development of typologies of Buddhist architecture in the Western Himalayas. To shed light on the mainly undocumented Buddhist architecture of this region, we launched our first research project in 2018. As a result, the architectural documentation of eighteen Buddhist sites in Dolpo is now available for the first time, based on the on-site assessment and survey during four field missions between 2018 and 2023. It provides an overview of the location, descriptions and references, photographs, sets of plans and 3D models of the surveyed buildings, enabling an inventory of the region’s cultural heritage to be initiated. The results enable us to establish a comprehensive typology of Buddhist architecture in Dolpo that allows for comparative analyses with buildings already documented in previous projects. Last but not least, the documentation provides the basis for much-needed restoration work. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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23 pages, 338 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Digital Archaeology Underwater: Ethical, Epistemic, and Climate Challenges for a Collaborative Future

by Caio Demilio and Filipe Castro

Heritage 2025, 8(9), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8090383 - 16 Sep 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3294

Abstract

This article explores the converging challenges and opportunities at the intersection of underwater cultural heritage, digital archaeology, and participatory science. In an era of accelerated climate change, data fragmentation, and rapid technological advancement, underwater archaeology is being reshaped by the rise of generative [...] Read more.

This article explores the converging challenges and opportunities at the intersection of underwater cultural heritage, digital archaeology, and participatory science. In an era of accelerated climate change, data fragmentation, and rapid technological advancement, underwater archaeology is being reshaped by the rise of generative artificial intelligence (GAI), FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) data governance, and the growing role of public archaeology. We argue for an ethical and epistemologically inclusive framework that recognizes the importance of co-authorship, data transparency, and multisensory narratives in interpreting submerged sites. Drawing on case studies from Latin America and Europe, this article demonstrates how socio-technical networks, collaborative models, and culturally sensitive ontologies offer a pathway toward a decolonized, accessible, and sustainable archaeology. This paper concludes with recommendations for integrated public policy and citizen-driven heritage protection, highlighting digital archaeology’s transformative potential in the Anthropocene. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

21 pages, 6784 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Digitizing Challenging Heritage Sites with the Use of iPhone LiDAR and Photogrammetry: The Case-Study of Sourp Magar Monastery in Cyprus

by Mehmetcan Soyluoğlu, Rahaf Orabi, Sorin Hermon and Nikolas Bakirtzis

Geomatics 2025, 5(3), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/geomatics5030044 - 9 Sep 2025

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3492

Abstract

Documenting and preserving cultural heritage assets is increasingly important, with threats from natural disasters, conflicts, climate change, and neglect, and some sites are both contested and physically difficult to access or document, posing the issue of “challenging heritage”. A range of innovative digital [...] Read more.

Documenting and preserving cultural heritage assets is increasingly important, with threats from natural disasters, conflicts, climate change, and neglect, and some sites are both contested and physically difficult to access or document, posing the issue of “challenging heritage”. A range of innovative digital methods have emerged, offering practical, low-cost, efficient techniques for the 3D documentation of threatened heritage, including smart phone-based mobile light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and photogrammetry. Such techniques offer quick, accessible, and cost-effective alternatives to terrestrial laser scanners, albeit with reduced accuracy and detail, offering practical solutions in cases with restricted funding, limited time for access, complex architectural geometries, or the unavailability of high-end equipment on site. This paper presents a real-world case study integrating iPhone LiDAR with aerial photogrammetry for the rapid documentation of Sourp Magar Monastery, a Medieval site located in a forested slopes of the Kyrenia Range, Cyprus. Due to its poor state of preservation and years of abandonment, as well as its remote nature and location, the monastery is considered a “challenging heritage” monument. In the context of a recent international restoration initiative, a preliminary digital survey was undertaken to both document the current condition of Sourp Magar and contribute to a better understanding of its construction history. This paper outlines the workflow integrating the use of smartphone LiDAR and aerial photogrammetry, evaluates its efficacy in challenging heritage sites, and discusses its potential implications for rapid, low-cost documentation. Finally, the present paper aims to show the multifaceted benefit of easy-to-use, low-cost technologies in the preliminary study of sites and monuments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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20 pages, 16247 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Rain and Sediment-Laden Winds on Earthen Archaeological Sites from Morphometry: A Case Study from Huaca Chotuna (8th–16th Century AD), Lambayeque, Peru

by Luigi Magnini, Maria Ilaria Pannaccione Apa, Robert F. Gutierrez Cachay, Marco Fernández Manayalle, Carlos E. Wester La Torre and Guido Ventura

Remote Sens. 2025, 17(17), 3103; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17173103 - 5 Sep 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1973

Abstract

Earthen archaeological sites are particularly vulnerable to rain and winds, whose effects may compromise their integrity. The Huaca Chotuna (HC; 8th–16th Century AD) is an adobe platform in Peru’s semi-arid Lambayeque region, and it is in an area with exposure to rain and [...] Read more.

Earthen archaeological sites are particularly vulnerable to rain and winds, whose effects may compromise their integrity. The Huaca Chotuna (HC; 8th–16th Century AD) is an adobe platform in Peru’s semi-arid Lambayeque region, and it is in an area with exposure to rain and winds associated with the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events. Here we present the results from an orthophotogrammetric and morphometric study aimed at quantifying the effects of erosion and deposition at the HC. The novelty of our approach consists of merging topographic, hydrological, and wind parameters to recognize the sector of the HC with exposure to potentially damaging natural climatic phenomena. We identify zones affected by erosion and deposition processes. Results of a diffusion model aimed to estimate the HC sectors where these processes will act in the next century are also presented. Gully erosion from rainfall indicates a vertical erosion rate of approximately 0.2 m/century, demonstrating the low preservation potential of the HC. Rainwater also deteriorates adobe bricks and triggers water/mud flows. Conversely, sediment-laden winds contribute to the partial burial of the HC. The findings highlight significant hazards to the HC’s structural integrity, including gravity instability. The interdisciplinary methodology we adopt offers a key framework for assessing and protecting other earthen sites globally against the escalating impacts of climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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22 pages, 5266 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Preserving Modern Heritage in the Emirate of Dubai: A Digital Documentation and Semantic HBIM Approach

by Abeer Abu Raed, Wido Quist and Uta Pottgiesser

Heritage 2025, 8(7), 263; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8070263 - 4 Jul 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3599

Abstract

The rapid urbanization and technological advancements in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have placed its modern architectural heritage from the 1970s and 1980s at increasing risk of being unrecognized and lost, particularly in Dubai following the discovery of oil. This research addresses the [...] Read more.

The rapid urbanization and technological advancements in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have placed its modern architectural heritage from the 1970s and 1980s at increasing risk of being unrecognized and lost, particularly in Dubai following the discovery of oil. This research addresses the critical need for the documentation and heritage representation of Dubai’s modern heritage, a city undergoing rapid transformation within a globalized urban landscape. Focusing on the Nasser Rashid Lootah Building (Toyota Building), an iconic early 1970s residential high-rise representing the modern architecture of Dubai and a significant milestone in its architectural history, this study explores a replicable and cost-effective approach to digitally document and conserve urban heritage under threat. The existing building was meticulously documented and analyzed to highlight its enduring value within the fast-changing urban fabric. Through the innovative combination of drone photography, ground-based photography, and HBIM, a high-resolution 3D model and a semantically organized HBIM prototype were generated. This research demonstrates a replicable measure for identifying architectural values, understanding modernist design typologies, and raising local community awareness about Dubai’s modern heritage. Ultimately, this study contributes toward developing recognition criteria and guiding efforts in documenting modern high-rise buildings as vital heritage worthy of recognition, documentation, and future conservation in the UAE. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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42 pages, 2165 KB  

Open AccessReview

A Systematic Literature Review to Assist in Defining New Guidelines and Practical Handbooks for the Documentation of Built Heritage

by Lorenzo Teppati Losè and Fulvio Rinaudo

Heritage 2025, 8(7), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8070249 - 25 Jun 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4764

Abstract

The documentation of cultural heritage, particularly built heritage, represents a critical component in ensuring its preservation, sustainable management, and effective transmission to future generations. As the field increasingly undergoes a digital transformation, there is a growing need for structured, standardised approaches that can [...] Read more.

The documentation of cultural heritage, particularly built heritage, represents a critical component in ensuring its preservation, sustainable management, and effective transmission to future generations. As the field increasingly undergoes a digital transformation, there is a growing need for structured, standardised approaches that can guide professionals and stakeholders through the complexities of documentation practices. Despite the availability of numerous standards and charters, a clear synthesis of consolidated methodologies and recent technological shifts remains limited. This study addresses this gap by conducting a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to assess current documentation practices. The research is part of a larger initiative funded by the FSE REACT-EU programme under the Italian PON Ricerca e Innovazione 2014–2020, specifically aiming to support public and private stakeholders in developing practical documentation strategies. Using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework, over 266 publications were analysed to reconstruct the state of the art. The findings confirm widely adopted practices among research groups while also highlighting emerging trends driven by technological advancements in geomatics. These insights will contribute to the formulation of practical guidelines to support operators in the field and reinforce the integration of innovative tools in Cultural Heritage documentation workflows. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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14 pages, 5528 KB  

Open AccessArticle

From Google Earth Studio to Hologram: A Pipeline for Architectural Visualization

by Philippe Gentet, Tam Le Phuc Do, Jumamurod Farhod Ugli Aralov, Oybek Mirzaevich Narzulloev, Leehwan Hwang and Seunghyun Lee

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 6179; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15116179 - 30 May 2025

Viewed by 2503

Abstract

High-resolution holographic visualization of built environments remains largely inaccessible due to the complexity and technical demands of traditional 3D data acquisition processes. This study proposes a workflow for producing high-quality full-color digital holographic stereograms of architectural landmarks using Google Earth Studio. By leveraging [...] Read more.

High-resolution holographic visualization of built environments remains largely inaccessible due to the complexity and technical demands of traditional 3D data acquisition processes. This study proposes a workflow for producing high-quality full-color digital holographic stereograms of architectural landmarks using Google Earth Studio. By leveraging photogrammetrically reconstructed three-dimensional (3D) city models and a controlled camera path, we generated perspective image sequences of two iconic monuments, that is, the Basílica de la Sagrada Família (Barcelona, Spain) and the Arc de Triomphe (Paris, France). A custom pipeline was implemented to compute keyframe coordinates, extract cinematic image sequences, and convert them into histogram data suitable for CHIMERA holographic printing. The holograms were recorded on Ultimate U04 silver halide plates and illuminated with RGB light-emitting diodes, yielding visually immersive reconstructions with strong parallax effects and color fidelity. This method circumvented the requirement for physical 3D scanning, thereby enabling scalable and cost-effective holography using publicly available 3D datasets. In conclusion, the findings indicate the potential of combining Earth Studio with digital holography for urban visualization, cultural heritage preservation, and educational displays. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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31 pages, 24504 KB  

Open AccessArticle

Archival Research, Underwater Optical Surveys, and 3D Modelling: Three Stages for Shaping the Wreck of the Steamship Bengala (Isola di Capo Rizzuto, Crotone, Italy)

by Salvatore Medaglia, Fabio Bruno, Ana Castelli, Matteo Collina, Barbara Davidde Petriaggi, Luca De Rosa, Julieta Frere, Fabrizio Fuoco, Guillermo Gutiérrez, Antonio Lagudi, Francesco Megna and Raffaele Peluso

Heritage 2025, 8(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8010013 - 29 Dec 2024

Viewed by 4014

Abstract

Bengala, a steamer that sank in 1889 near Capo Rizzuto, Italy, was a relatively new vessel for its time, with an unusually short 18-year service life, given that steamers of the period typically operated for 30 to 40 years. Despite its brief [...] Read more.

Bengala, a steamer that sank in 1889 near Capo Rizzuto, Italy, was a relatively new vessel for its time, with an unusually short 18-year service life, given that steamers of the period typically operated for 30 to 40 years. Despite its brief history, SS Bengala played a significant role in the development of Italy’s young merchant navy, undergoing multiple ownership changes and serving various Italian shipping companies. Employed mainly along the route to Southeast Asia, it transported Italian migrants overseas and also participated in troop raids during the Italian military expedition to Eritrea in 1887. Despite its historical significance, no iconographic material has yet been found to depict SS Bengala, and archival research conducted in Italy and England has not uncovered any naval plans, photographs, or drawings of the ship. To overcome this gap, the authors employed new technologies and historical information to create a virtual reconstruction. This research combined archival sources with underwater surveys, including a detailed 3D survey by divers and archaeologists. Archival research, including consultation of official documents, provided critical information on the ship’s dimensions, superstructure, rigging, materials, and construction methods. The 3D modelling of the ship’s external hull, based on precise geometric data from the wreck site, offers a first step towards virtual reconstruction. The modelling is grounded in photogrammetric surveying techniques, ensuring high accuracy in the reconstruction process. The model can be used in augmented reality (AR) applications to enhance underwater exploration, allowing divers to visualise the reconstructed ship in its original environment. Additionally, it supports museum exhibits, interactive visualisations, and educational games, making it a valuable resource for engaging the public with maritime history and archaeology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic 3D Documentation of Natural and Cultural Heritage)

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