The Interactive Digital Presentation of the Humanities: Our Experiments with Augmented-Reality (AR) for Archaeological Tourism

Abstract

<p>Tourists visiting cultural heritage sites often primarily engage in the passive reception of information presented by archaeologists and historians. Augmented Reality (AR) has the potential to provide a more interactive visitor-centered approach to heritage, thus enabling highly engaging touristic experiences. We are developing an AR-based mobile app aimed at sharing an archaeological site and landscape in a rural area of Armenia in the South Caucasus. This app combines physical heritage with local intangible culture and natural heritage. Among its multiple modalities are an interactive tour of the region’s main archaeological site with a visualization of reconstructed wall remains, details about local activities and authentic rural lifestyles, and the stories associated with all these. Through studies conducted over the prior two summers in Armenia, we have assessed the usability of our app, user engagement with the app, and the extent to which the app enhances users' understanding of local cultural heritage. This paper presents the context of AR-enabled archaeological tourism, the process of developing our digital humanities app, and the results of our user studies. The feedback received from diverse groups of visitors demonstrates that the app’s AR elements encourage active participation and interaction, allowing visitors to explore and interpret cultural heritage more meaningfully. The content of the app also facilitates user engagement with local communities and local narratives, fostering deeper connections and appreciation for the region's traditions. Future research will continue to explore how this kind of digital heritage can benefit both visitors and local communities while contributing to sustainable tourism and the long-term preservation of cultural heritage. <br></p>