Site:Museo dell’Arte Classica, Rome
Project:Visual Archaeology – “Ri-costruire le immagini del passato”
Date:2018
Client(s):Museo dell’Arte Classica, Sapienza University
Partner(s):3D Archeolab, Contini 1898
As part of the exhibitionVisual ArchaeologyI designed and implemented aninteractive application for the visualization of Linear B clay tablets, developed within the broader framework of thePa-it-o project, combining 3D models, touchscreen interaction, and augmented reality.
The exhibition itself explored the evolution of visualisation techniques in archaeology, from traditional plaster casts and historical slides to moderndigital archaeology toolssuch as 3D reconstruction and immersive technologies. Within this context, the app was conceived as a bridge betweenphysical replicas and digital content, enhancing the way visitors engage with ancient written artefacts.
You can see more about the exhibitionhere.
Project Overview
The installation consisted of adigital totem equipped with a touchscreen interface, placed alongside a set of3D printed replicas of Linear B tablets. Visitors were able to explore high-resolution 3D models of the tablets directly on the screen, while simultaneously interacting with their physical counterparts.
The application allowed users to navigate between different tablets and access detailed information for each object. For every tablet, the interface provided:
a descriptive record of the artefact
atransliteration of the Linear B text
atranslation into modern language
This approach transformed the tablets from static display objects into interactive sources of knowledge, making complex epigraphic content more accessible to a wider audience.
3D Models and Physical Replicas
The digital models used in the application were paired withphysical replicas produced through 3D technologies. The tablets were initially recreated as 3D models and then fabricated using 3D printing techniques.
The final replicas, produced by3D ArcheoLab, were made in synthetic plaster. The process involved using the 3D prints to create molds, into which the plaster was cast. This method closely recalls the historical techniques used to produce the plaster casts preserved in the Museo dell’Arte Classica.
While traditional casting methods are no longer applicable to original artefacts—due to the risk of damaging them—this workflow demonstrates howdigital fabrication can replicate historical practices in a non-invasive way, preserving both the material and methodological heritage of archaeology.
Augmented Reality and User Experience
In addition to the totem-based application, the project also included amobile AR (Augmented Reality) component, allowing users to visualize the tablets in a digital environment and explore them from different perspectives.
The integration oftouchscreen interaction, 3D visualization, and AR technologiescreated a multi-layered user experience, where visitors could:
physically handle the replicas
explore detailed 3D models
access textual and linguistic information
interact with digital content in real time
Digital Archaeology and Public Engagement
This project represents a practical example of howdigital archaeology and interactive technologiescan enhance the communication of archaeological data. By combining physical and digital elements, the installation encouraged an active and participatory approach to learning.
The use of3D models, augmented reality, and interactive interfacesnot only improves accessibility but also allows complex materials—such as Linear B tablets—to be understood by non-specialist audiences.
Within the broader context of theVisual Archaeologyexhibition, the app contributed to demonstrating how digital tools can extend traditional methods of display and interpretation, opening new possibilities formuseum experiences and digital heritage communication.