E. Jerem1, Zs. Mester2, Á. Ringer2 and Zs. Vasáros3
1 Archaeological Institute of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
2 Dept. of Prehistory and Ancient History of the University of Miskolc, Hungary
3 Faculty of Architecture, Technical University of Budapest, Hungary

The Public Foundation for the Szeleta Culture has been preparing the construction of a visitor center near the Szeleta cave, eponymous site of the Palaeolithic culture. The project entered the phase of concrete planning in 2002. Virtual modelling receives a twin function in this project.
The multimedia-based exhibitions and the creation of interactive computer terminals and experimental workshops designed to attract visitors requires special use of the space available, in addition to both external and internal architectural solutions. It is absolutely necessary to construct auditoriums and educational rooms equipped with cutting-edge technology, as well as research facilities, archives, small libraries and computerised databases for the archaeologists, museumpedagogists and tourist guides. Thus 3D visualisation and simulation models form a vital part of the planning and decision-making processes.
The exhibitions of the new museum would present the interaction between the evolution of mankind and the natural environment, and would give the visitors a unique, first-hand experience with the help of animated reconstructional models. The museum also functions as a visitor centre at the gate of the Bükk mountains, thereby promoting tourism aimed at visiting sites by virtual Palaeolithic heritage trails and archaeological information.
It is a special feature of the Bükk mountains that all the important sites are within the boundaries of the National Park. This creates a unique opportunity for a novel touristic experience which combines the preservation of the natural and cultural heritage in a visitor-friendly manner.
Key words: virtual modelling, 3D visualisation, simulation, cultural heritage, natural environment