Safeguarding the Past: Blending Digital and Traditional Tools to Combat Illicit Excavations and Cultural Property Trafficking
Date Issued
September 8, 2025
Author(s)
Orengo Hector A.
Barcelona Supercomputing Center, Catalan Institute of Classical Archaeology, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Universitat de Valencia, University of Cambridge McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research, University of Nottingham, University of Sheffield, Université de Limoges
Berganzo-besga Iban
Barcelona Supercomputing Center, Catalan Institute of Classical Archaeology, EOLOS Floating Lidar Solutions, International University of La Rioja, Universidad del País Vasco, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, University of Toronto Mississauga
Farella Elisa Mariarosaria
Fondazione Bruno Kessler, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II
Donna, Donna
Jong, Anna de
Abstract
Illicit excavations and the trafficking of cultural property remain serious transnational threats, often linked to organized crime and
conflict-related instability. Addressing this challenge requires interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of innovative digital tools. The Safeguarding the Past workshop, held within the REVITALISER project activities, explores the use of Earth Observation,
AI, and 3D technologies alongside legal and criminological frameworks. It brings together researchers, professionals, and authorities to strengthen cultural heritage protection
conflict-related instability. Addressing this challenge requires interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of innovative digital tools. The Safeguarding the Past workshop, held within the REVITALISER project activities, explores the use of Earth Observation,
AI, and 3D technologies alongside legal and criminological frameworks. It brings together researchers, professionals, and authorities to strengthen cultural heritage protection
Affiliation
Barcelona Supercomputing Centre, Computational Archaeology