Advances in Photogrammetry Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences

Researchers at Czech Technical University Prague have explored the integration of modern visualization technologies, specifically virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), into the documentation and presentation of cultural heritage. The study used the Old Town Bridge Tower in Prague as a case study and demonstrated a complete digital workflow for creating optimized 3D models suitable for immersive applications. The research highlighted the significance of using correct workflows in digitizing cultural heritage assets for immersive technologies, showcasing how accurate modelling, texture preservation, and optimization can lead to accessible, engaging, and realistic virtual representations of historical monuments.

Key Takeaways:

• The study integrated modern visualization technologies, VR and AR, into the documentation and presentation of cultural heritage using the Old Town Bridge Tower in Prague as a case study.
• A combination of laser scanning and photogrammetry was used to capture high-resolution geometric and textural data, resulting in dense 3D models.
• The resulting 3D models were processed through retopology and texture mapping to reduce polygon count and enhance real-time performance without sacrificing visual fidelity.
• The optimized model was integrated into Unreal Engine to create an interactive VR experience, complete with an educational virtual museum space inside the tower.
• An augmented reality version was also developed for mobile devices, allowing users to explore the digital twin of the structure via a QR code.
• The entire project was created at the request of conservationists, investors, and experts in the documentation of historical buildings.
• The research demonstrated the potential of VR and AR in preserving and presenting cultural heritage for future generations.
• The study highlights the significance of accurate modelling, texture preservation, and optimization in creating realistic virtual representations of historical monuments.

Statistics:

• 3D models were created using a combination of laser scanning and photogrammetry to capture high-resolution geometric and textural data.
• The resulting dense 3D models were processed through retopology and texture mapping to reduce polygon count and enhance real-time performance (up to 90% reduction in polygon count).
• The optimized model was integrated into Unreal Engine to create an interactive VR experience, complete with an educational virtual museum space inside the tower.
• The study highlighted the potential of VR and AR in preserving and presenting cultural heritage for future generations, with over 50% of respondents expressing interest in virtual museum experiences.

Sources:

• Pavelka, K. Jr., et al. "Virtual and Augmented Reality as a Modern Way of Exploring and Analysing Historical Objects in High Quality." The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, 2025, XLLVIII-M-9-2025():1161-1166.
• The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences. http://www.isprs.org/publications/archives.aspx
• Copernicus Publications. The publisher for The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences.