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

In the National Archaeological Museum of Reggio Calabria (Southern Italy) are located two full-size bronzes cast around the 5th century BC: The “Bronzi di Riace”. 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, for tourism purposes in order to further valorize and disseminate archaeological heritage, we developed an app based on Augmented Reality (AR). There is a renewed interest in the context of international museological studies and AR innovation represents a new method for amplifying visitor numbers into museums, despite concerns over returns on investment. The enhancement of cultural heritage by 3D acquisition and modeling tools represents one of the fields of study that will see rapid development in the near future. The created app allows the users, 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 Virtual Reality (VR) technologies with the opportunities offered by 3D printing.