The Role of Digital Technologies in Preserving Ruined Architectural Heritage

Authors

  • Nataliia Petrova PhD in History, Associate Professor, Associate Professor of the Department of Archaeology, Ethnology and World History, Odesa I. I. Mechnikov National University, Odesa, Ukraine https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9536-4357
  • Svitlana Marchenko Candidate of Historical Sciences, Associate Professor, Associate Professor of the Department of Social Sciences, Polissia National University, Zhytomyr, Ukraine https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3662-9826
  • Galyna Stefanyuk Candidate of Historical Sciences, Associate Professor, Associate Professor of the Department of History of Central and Eastern Europe and Special Branches of Historical Science, Vasyl Stefanyk Carpathian National University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4143-9146

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20394555

Keywords:

digital modeling, virtual reconstruction, 3D scanning, architectural visualization, digital archives, restoration of historic sites, digital museum practices.

Abstract

The article explores the role of digital technologies in the reconstruction of destroyed architectural monuments as a vital tool for cultural heritage preservation. Particular attention is paid to modern methods of digital modeling, 3D scanning, and photogrammetry, as well as virtual and augmented reality technologies that ensure high-precision reproduction of lost or damaged objects. The purpose of the article is to define the role of digital technologies in the reconstruction of destroyed architectural landmarks and their significance for the preservation of cultural heritage and the post-war recovery of Ukraine. The study employs a complex of general scientific and specialized methods, including the analysis and synthesis of sources, which allowed for the generalization of modern approaches to digital restoration and cultural heritage preservation; comparative analysis was used to contrast traditional restoration methods with modern digital approaches; case studies were utilized to examine specific examples of reconstructing destroyed architectural monuments using digital technologies; digital modeling involved creating virtual reconstructions based on archival materials and scanning results, while visualization focused on presenting them as 3D models and interactive formats; a systems approach ensured a comprehensive understanding of digital restoration processes as an interconnected set of technological and cultural-historical components. The results of the study establish that digital technologies play a crucial role in the preservation and reproduction of destroyed architectural monuments, especially in the context of wartime destruction and natural disasters. The effectiveness of 3D scanning and photogrammetry technologies, which enable the creation of high-precision digital copies of architectural objects, is proven. It is established that the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM technologies) facilitates a systemic approach to reconstruction. The conclusions state that digital technologies currently play a significant role in the preservation and restoration of cultural heritage, particularly in cases of partial or complete destruction. The use of 3D scanning, photogrammetry, BIM modeling, and VR/AR allows for the accurate recording and reproduction of monuments, creating virtual models for science, education, and tourism. Such methods form a digital archive of cultural heritage and require multidisciplinary cooperation and support, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Published

2026-05-26

How to Cite

Petrova, N., Marchenko, S., & Stefanyuk, G. (2026). The Role of Digital Technologies in Preserving Ruined Architectural Heritage. Bulletin of Humanities, (19). https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20394555