Navigating virtual heritage applications for historic cities in the middle east

摘要

This paper discusses conceptual and practical framework for the development of virtual heritage platforms as a research, educational and engagement tool that brings historic spaces and buildings back to the recognition of the public eye of the ordinary user. It not only reproduces historical scenes through physical modelling of archaeological sites or data, but, more importantly, through serial narratives where life is explored and practiced in motion, and where cultural-feed brings meaning, experiences and understanding to the socio-cultural context. The paper first introduces a brief and summary database of case studies of examples of virtual heritage platforms and outputs that are suitable to different purposes and audiences. It, then, looks at the context and production of VH in Egypt, as an example of Middle Eastern cities with vast heritage sites and advanced technological provisions. It reports on the process and findings of an AHRC-funded project, Virtual Heritage Cairo, that aimed to investigate difficulties, technological and skill gaps amongst stakeholders and local start-ups that would otherwise enable VH in Egypt to become regional power.