VIRTUAL Lisbon Livable Cities

Abstract

This study explores how emerging digital technologies can contribute to maintaining cultural identity in the face of rapid urban transformation and ongoing globalization. It highlights the increasing difficulty of preserving both tangible and intangible heritage, revealing the limitations of traditional preservation methods. The importance of this research lies in addressing the global need for innovative, scalable, and sustainable approaches to cultural heritage conservation through immersive technology. Despite the growth of digital heritage initiatives, there remains a gap in understanding how technologies like AR, VR, and AI can ethically and effectively support cultural continuity, inclusivity, and public engagement. This study seeks to answer: How can immersive technologies recreate historical environments, enhance public interaction, and support sustainable heritage tourism? Using a qualitative comparative analysis, the research examines digital heritage projects such as Virtual Pompeii, Virtual Angkor, the Virtual Dance Museum, and Indigenous Oral Traditions. It assesses these initiatives in terms of cultural representation, user experience, educational value, and ethical integrity. Findings indicate that immersive technologies have the potential to transform heritage preservation by revitalizing historical narratives, enriching educational engagement, and providing dynamic tools for interactive tourism. At the same time, challenges related to authenticity, equitable access, and cultural sensitivity must be addressed. Ultimately, this research advances the global conversation on cultural preservation by proposing technology-integrated strategies that ensure heritage remains a relevant, inclusive, and engaging part of future urban experiences.