Innovative methods for monitoring cultural heritage affected by climate change by enhancing visitor experience
Journal
Earth Resources and Environmental Remote Sensing/GIS Applications XVI
Date Issued
October 28, 2025
Author(s)
Evripidou, Valentinos
Cyprus University of Technology, ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence
Editor(s)
Teodoro, Ana C.
Gagliardi, Valerio
Roma Tre University, Università degli Studi Roma Tre Dipartimento di Ingegneria
Abstract
Innovative methods for monitoring cultural heritage affected by climate change by enhancing visitors' experience. One of the most significant challenges facing global cultural heritage preservation is the escalating impact of climate change on cultural heritage sites. In response to these threats, innovative technological solutions have become essential. Technologies such as crowdsourcing, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) significantly enhance cultural heritage site monitoring and visitor experience.
The TRIQUETRA project exemplifies this integration by employing citizen-driven crowdsourcing as a scalable and costeffective strategy for the real-time monitoring and preservation of vulnerable heritage sites. Visitors actively contribute by capturing and uploading geotagged images and environmental observations through an intuitive mobile and web platform, significantly enhancing monitoring data's temporal and spatial resolution. These crowdsourced inputs supplement traditional conservation methods and support the continuous refinement of advanced 3D site models, enabling the early detection of environmental changes and vulnerabilities. Further enriching this approach, immersive AR and VR experiences educate visitors and raise awareness about risks to heritage sites posed by climate change. AR technology offers real-time, contextually rich overlays of historical information, significantly enhancing visitor engagement. Meanwhile, VR modules allow virtual explorations of restricted or sensitive areas, fostering deeper public connections and advocacy for heritage preservation.
Rigorously tested at the UNESCO-listed Choirokoitia site in Cyprus, this integrated framework has demonstrated practical effectiveness in mitigating site-specific hazards and informing targeted intervention strategies. TRIQUETRA offers a replicable, holistic approach by combining technological innovation, climate change awareness, and active citizen participation, significantly advancing the global agenda for proactive cultural heritage conservation amid ongoing climate challenges.
The TRIQUETRA project exemplifies this integration by employing citizen-driven crowdsourcing as a scalable and costeffective strategy for the real-time monitoring and preservation of vulnerable heritage sites. Visitors actively contribute by capturing and uploading geotagged images and environmental observations through an intuitive mobile and web platform, significantly enhancing monitoring data's temporal and spatial resolution. These crowdsourced inputs supplement traditional conservation methods and support the continuous refinement of advanced 3D site models, enabling the early detection of environmental changes and vulnerabilities. Further enriching this approach, immersive AR and VR experiences educate visitors and raise awareness about risks to heritage sites posed by climate change. AR technology offers real-time, contextually rich overlays of historical information, significantly enhancing visitor engagement. Meanwhile, VR modules allow virtual explorations of restricted or sensitive areas, fostering deeper public connections and advocacy for heritage preservation.
Rigorously tested at the UNESCO-listed Choirokoitia site in Cyprus, this integrated framework has demonstrated practical effectiveness in mitigating site-specific hazards and informing targeted intervention strategies. TRIQUETRA offers a replicable, holistic approach by combining technological innovation, climate change awareness, and active citizen participation, significantly advancing the global agenda for proactive cultural heritage conservation amid ongoing climate challenges.
Affiliation