Augmented Reality in Cultural Heritage: An Overview of the Last Decade of Applications

Abstract

Augmented reality is a mature technology that uses the real world as a substrate and extends it by overlaying computer-generated information. It has been applied to several domains. In particular, the technology was proven to be useful for the management and preservation of Cultural Heritage. This study provides an overview of the last decade of the use of augmented reality in cultural heritage through a detailed review of the scientific papers in the field. We analyzed the applications published on Scopus and Clarivate Web of Science databases over a period of 9 years (2012–2021). Bibliometric data consisted of 1201 documents, and their analysis was performed using various tools, including ScientoPy, VOS Viewer, and Microsoft Excel. The results revealed eight trending topics of applying augmented reality technology to cultural heritage: 3D reconstruction of cultural artifacts, digital heritage, virtual museums, user experience, education, tourism, intangible cultural heritage, and gamification. Each topic is discussed in detail in the article sections, providing insight into existing applications and research trends for each application field.

Augmented Reality Utilization in the Documentation of Suez Canal Region Historical Cities Architecture Styles - Case Study: Ismailia City

“…Previous studies discussed the integration of augmented reality in heritage preservation (Naai-Jung Shih, 2021), (Kolivand et al, 2018) , (Boboc et al, 2022), (Aziz & Siang, 2014), (Yongtian Wang, 2009) and (Digital Workflows for Heritage Conservation, 2017), Nguyen (Nguyen, 2023) argues that In the coming years, augmented reality will be more widely accessible, and more people will be eager to use it. For the purpose of promoting local public awareness of historical sites using the intelligence model obtained to produce virtual tours, organizations and businesses started to use this technology in the field of cultural heritage to provide more realistic experiences for tourists and museum visitors.…”

A bibliometric analysis of immersive technology in museum exhibitions: exploring user experience

“…This virtual engagement with relics gives users an understanding of facets, textures, and minute details that often go unnoticed in conventional museum environments (Man and Gao, 2023). The application of AR technology superimposes historical and contextual information onto the artifacts being viewed, establishing a deeper connection with our shared heritage (Boboc et al, 2022). Such a transformation widens the scope of access to global heritage by permitting countless viewers to engage with exhibits, simultaneously safeguarding original items from physical deterioration.…”

“…Based on meticulous historical research and archaeological data, this digital rejuvenation brings bygone eras and lost cultures to life (Stylianidis et al, 2022). These AR applications are boosting tourism and education by allowing people to appreciate and understand cultural heritage more engagingly and intimately (Boboc et al, 2022).…”

Exploring the Role of User Experience and Interface Design Communication in Augmented Reality for Education

“…As one of the most innovative and engaging fields today [2], AR enhances educational experiences by seamlessly integrating virtual elements with real-world environments, thus making abstract concepts tangible and interactive [3]. The increased appeal of AR, driven by technological advances and the growing accessibility of AR devices, is particularly notable within education, where it is rapidly becoming a central tool for enhancing learning [4,5].…”