Editorial for the Special Issue: “3D Virtual Reconstruction for Cultural Heritage”

The use of 3D modelling, computer-aided design (CAD), augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for the acquisition and virtual reconstruction of Cultural Heritage is of great importance in the analysis, study, documentation and dissemination of the past. Reverse engineering (RE) and computer graphics (CG) are also relevant aids for the visualisation and preservation of Cultural Heritage. The integrated use of AR and VR technologies helps to accomplish the full potential of 3D models obtained with reality-based techniques and CAD data, and it aims at interactively communicating the significance of the heritage to non-experts. AR and VR are valid tools for interacting with 3D models and help make culture more accessible to the wider public. Their flexibility can help museum curators to adapt cultural proposals and information about artefacts based on different types of visitor’s categories. These technologies allow visitors to travel through space and time, have fun and get educated on complicated topics. VR/AR technologies are also extremely useful for recreating a lost or hidden environment, leading to a better comprehension of the site or allowing people to discover important sites that are not visible, both for security and conservation reasons.