Virtual reality - A knowledge toolfor cultural heritage

Based on experience in building 3D models of Mesoamerican archaeological sites, we will discuss the issue of accuracy in relation to historical data, as well as the need to integrate an understanding of the actual state of the ruins i.e. the initial building and later transformations that affect the site, in order to construct quality models. An archaeological survey cannot rely solely on computer science techniques but must include knowledge of the historical object. Furthermore, the modeling phase necessarily leads to a synthesis of the information based on criteria that may vary depending on the objectives of each project. Thus, the difficulty in obtaining a neutral survey of the historical site or monument while at the same time satisfying all the requirements of both restorers and historians of architecture. The applications of Immersive Virtual Reality are also explained, specifically as a recording tool to study the architectural registry of a site or monument, and thus be able to analyze, understand, and explain ancient architecture thanks to the possibilities it provides for visualizing and interacting with the virtual world, and the necessity to count on better interfaces to explore the available information. Additionally, this technology is used to improve teaching methods, especially in, but not restricted to, the fields of art history and architecture; the different ways in which it was applied and the cognitive factors involved in these experiences are also discussed. Finally, we will comment on the difficulties we have faced while attempting to achieve the same level of quality in the projection in the virtual reality facility than that of the 3D model, and in controlling the parameters which might help reproduce an accurate perception of the 3D world.