Enhancing Cultural Sustainability: Making Rescue Excavations Accessible through Educational Applications and Virtual Reality

Abstract

The key questions of this article concern the extent to which digital documentation, 3D scanning technologies, and VR/AR technologies contribute to the preservation, enhancement, and sustainability of cultural heritage. The purpose of this research is to present an innovative methodology through which a platform for the diagnosis, management, and documentation of findings, progress, and reports and projections of rescue excavations in the area of Euboea, Greece was implemented. A holistic approach is proposed with a comprehensive system of archaeological documentation and visualization, which integrates the use of digital technologies in all steps of the archaeological process, enhances the tools of the scientific community, and provides immersive experiences for both researchers and the public. The results of the method include (1) a complex toolbox of innovative technologies that allow archaeologists to plan and execute a rescue excavation in an efficient and concise manner and (2) a VR installation at the Diachronic Museum of Chalkida “Arethousa”, which allows the public to participate in virtual rescue excavations and explore archaeological sites that are no longer accessible. Through this project, the impact of new technologies on cultural heritage and, in particular, on issues of sustainability, accessibility, education, and visitor participation is highlighted.