VirtualArch - Making Archaeological Heritage Visible
Jiri Unger
Christoph Lobinger2020, EAC OCCASIONAL PAPER NO. 15
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Abstract
Rapid technological development in recent years means that virtual reconstructions have evolved from an illustrative complement of archaeological presentation to becoming a standard part of the interpretative process of archaeological data. VirtualArch has been engaged to develop the use of virtual reconstructions as an innovative visualisation tool. Ten partners from eight countries have come together in an EU-funded project (Interreg Central Europe), running from 2017 to 2020. The partnership is comprised of regional and national archaeological institutes and heritage offi ces, two universities/research institutions and also two local communities. Eight pilot sites have been selected across Central Europe. They form three main types; urban areas, mines and underwater sites. All have one thing in common; none are publicly accessible or visible. The aim of the project has been to make all of these sites accessible and comprehensible through the use of virtual and augmented reality.
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The international project VirtualArch: visualization and presentation of hidden archaeological heritage across Central Europe
Conference on Cultural Heritage and New Technologies, 2018
Different approaches and challenges, sharing experiences but reaching the same goal-a better understanding and raised awareness of hidden archaeological heritage and its protection by presenting it via new information and communication technologies like VR/AR. That´s the main background of the EU-project "VirtualArch-Visualize to Valorize", running from July 2017 to June 2020. 10 partners from 8 central European countries try to elaborate a transnational strategy to valorize hidden archaeological monuments by visualizing them. Therefore, 8 selected pilot sites were digitized/visualized and presented to stakeholders via guided field tours and information points on spot. The pilot sites are presenting different archaeological types, forms and periods like prehistoric and medieval mines, roman and medieval harbours as well as cultural landscapes with prehistoric pile dwellings or urban archaeology with huge and complex stratigraphy. This includes also different areas and environments, impacts and audiences. Although the project is still in its first half, the session seems to be a perfect area to present project and its actors as well as share first experiences with all present professionals and experts.
Virtual Reconstructions and Computer Visualisations in Archaeological Practice
The introductory paper is followed by nine papers focusing on some major (definitely not all), aspects connecting archaeological practice and VR presentations and potentials. In doing this, we have attempted to cover some essential theoretical issues (Chapters: Introduction to virtual reconstructions; Physical vs. virtual reconstruction; Augmented reality as an output), technological aspects (Chapters: A comparison of different software solutions for 3D modeling), learning basics of visual products (Chapter: 2D and 3D visual products: First step towards virtual econstructions) and a series of case studies and examples (Chapters: About digital field documentation; Brief overview of examples of VR projects; Virtual reconstruction of the Vinča-Belo Brdo site; Examples of good practice in 3D visualisation in preventive archaeology). It is important to note here, that with the exception of three cases presented in the chapter Brief overview of examples of VR projects (Catalhöyük, Uruk and Etruscanning 3D project) all other papers derived from the archaeological field research performed by the authors who had the possibility to control all different aspects involved in a complete research, from logistics, field execution to interpretation and presentation of the results. While this may not be so relevant for the VR products themselves it is highly relevant for demonstrating some other important aspects regarding professionalism in preventive archaeology, especially the learning capacities and ‘organic’ development and transfer of knowledge of new ideas and technologies. If preventive archaeology is to go beyond the level of basic field service and strengthen its relevance, which is constantly challenged by other stakeholders in spatial development process, it is necessary also to build up on the experiences and knowledge of the practitioners of preventive research.
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Virtual archaeology
Although the Archaeology is strongly connected to the past, this is a modern science and the new technologies are widely used to present and better understand the ancient monuments in our modern world. Sometimes this knowledge is the only chance to preserve the information coming from the past. For example - the destruction of the ancient city of Palmyra due to the savage war in Syria shocked the international community. The only way out seems to be the digital technologies: the NGO CyArk offered emergency 3D scanning of the ancient city before to be totally damaged by the Islamic terrorists. Definitely the new digital techniques are not only an exciting way for entertainment but also a scientific method that helps archaeologists in their work and offers wide range of opportunities to interpreting the past. This project will guide you to the basic method of digital documentation of archaeological evidence. The students involved will have a chance to reconstruct the ancient monuments using 3D digital methods, Interactive interfaces, Holograms etc. In addition we going to visit different archaeological localities, will discover the ancient culture of Thracia (South Bulgara) starting from 5th millennium BC till the picturesque architecture of 18th century. Documenting the past through modern technologies will give you confidence in your future.
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From GIS to Virtual Reality, computer science is transforming the way in which archaeological sites are presented and interpreted. Laser scanning and Photogrammetry are ever more frequently hailed as ‘the future’, yet 3D Reconstruction and scripting offer potentially unlimited applications. Recent development in hardware and software has allowed the reconstruction of high detail 3D models, however publications still favour 2D renders and mathematical equations over interactive environments and scripts. Skepticism regarding the utility of 3D Reconstruction stem from issues of accuracy and accountability. Thomas and Tilley, on the other hand, criticise the lack of human experience. Even the aims of this technology are called in questions, with many relegating it to a ‘pseudoscience’. The reconstruction of the Xagħra Brochtorff Circle offers an alternative view. Detailed recording of the modelling process provides a means of reviewing the overall accuracy. The inclusion of navigational elements and dynamic scripting cause a feeling of presence, enhancing user experience. Coding produces raw data used to analyse lighting, spatial distribution and lines of sight within the site, furthering our understanding of Maltese ritual. The Neolithic hypogea is therefore reinterpreted through the virtual simulation of the original environment.
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