VIRTUAL Barcelona

Abstract

The nautical heritage is widespread throughout Europe. Historic boats distinguish our coasts and are preserved, restored and valorised in different ways depending on their national and even more local origin. In Italy, the historic boat recovery represents a niche reality; nevertheless, it is essential as it aims to conserve a precious part of the national heritage. The latter is a varied and strongly peculiar heritage that constitutes the foundations of the nautical sector, a driving force for the national economy. Therefore, the protection, conservation and restoration of historical boats have significant consequences for the territory and the social fabric. In this context, the associations that deal with nautical heritage represent cultural reference points. Not only do they propose activities capable of spreading immaterial knowledge, but they also deal with the restoration of boats, which they carry out using traditional techniques and knowledge. Nowadays, new technologies and the increasingly widespread digitalisation offer new opportunities in this sector. Indeed, they provide the possibility of being independent from the real world and translating boats and the restoration project into a virtual reality. Thus, they allow for a wide range of new possibilities at all stages of recovery. Therefore, the paper aims to show how digital technologies can positively influence the branch, not only from a cultural point of view in the diffusion and valorisation of the existing nautical heritage. Indeed, it is also a practical tool representing a valid help for designers in every phase of the restoration project.