“Bronzi Di Riace” Geomatics Techniques in Augmented Reality for Cultural Heritage Dissemination

Abstract

In the ‘Museo Archeologico Nazionale della Magna Grecia' in Reggio Calabria (south Italy) are located two full-size bronzes cast around the 5th century BC: The Riace Bronzes; thanks to their outstanding manufacture, they truly represent significant sculptural masterpieces of Greek art in the world. This paper describes the methodology used by the Geomatics Laboratory of the DICEAM of the Mediterranean University of Reggio Calabria to achieve a 3D model of the two sculptures. The 3D modelling is based on the use of imaging techniques, such as digital photogrammetry and computer vision. The achieved results demonstrate the effectiveness of the technique used in the cultural heritage field for the creation of a digital production and replication through 3d printing. Moreover considering that in the renewed interest in the context of international museological studies, Augmented Reality innovation represents a new method for amplifying visitor numbers into museums despite concerns over returns on investment, the procedure to develop a touristic app is described. In fact the enhancement of cultural heritage through the use of 3D acquisition and modeling tools represents one of the fields of study that will see rapid development in the near future. Thus, in order to further valorize and disseminate archaeological heritage, we are developing an app for tourism purposes. The created app allows the user, in real time, to obtain additional information on the object of investigation, even allowing them to view the 3D model in AR. Moreover, the app combines AR and VR technologies with the opportunities offered by 3D printing,