Meanwhile, in Greece, new technology is being embraced to offer visitors a glimpse into the past. The country has enthusiastically adopted the use of augmented reality and digital overlays to showcase its famous archaeological monuments and enhance visitors' understanding of ancient history. One such innovation is a mobile app that provides a virtual tour of the Acropolis, allowing users to see how the site and its sculptures appeared 2,500 years ago. This includes the contentious collection of marble sculptures currently held at the British Museum in London, which Greece has long sought to have returned.
By simply pointing their smartphones at the Parthenon temple, visitors can now see the sculptures restored to their original positions on the monument. The app also reveals lesser-known historical details, such as the vibrant colors with which many of the sculptures were originally painted and the presence of a shallow pool of water beneath the statue of goddess Athena in the Parthenon.
The app, called “Chronos” after the mythological king of the Titans and Greek word for “time,” uses augmented reality to place the ancient impression of the site onto the screen, matching the real-world view as you walk around.
AR is reaching consumers after a long wait and is set to affect a huge range of professional and leisure activities.
These technological advancements not only bring ancient sites to life but also contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding cultural heritage and restitution. With the aid of these digital tools, tourists at the Acropolis can witness the resolution of a long-standing debate and gain a deeper appreciation for Greece's rich history.
