The general aim of the project "Virtual Archaeology" is the introduction of fundamentally changed working methods in archaeology with the aid of the most modern technologies, not only in the area of primary data acquisition but also in data processing and editing for scientific purposes and for the presentation of archaeological knowledge to a broad general public. The research project consists of two archaeological applications: Troy ("TroiaVR"), and Ancient Egypt and Sudan("Ancient Nile VR").
Using satellite data, air force maps, excavation plans and other sources "Virtual Archaeology" are able to conduct a virtual-reality exploration of ancient sites from a birdseye or pedestrian's perspective. There will always be new details for visitors to discover on buildings and in the surrounding countryside, all on display in the desired resolution. "Virtual Archaeology" not only visualises the huts and palaces but also shows archaeological artefacts at the precise spot where they were discovered. This makes it possible to document with impressive accuracy more than 100 years of excavation history.
What a short time ago was only feasible using an astronomically expensive supercomputer has now become possible thanks to state-of-the-art PC technology.
The presentation will summarize the progress that has been made during the first two years and will demonstrate some future prospects.
Key words: virtual reality, 3d, reconstruction, presentation system, cultural heritage