Augmented Reality brings Olympic birthplace to life

 In CraneMorley, Mixed Reality Industry Insight

Earlier in November 2021, Greece’s Ministry of Culture and Sport unveiled a groundbreaking project that brought Ancient Olympia back to life. Visitors now have the opportunity to witness Ancient Olympia just as it existed 2000 years ago. The only distinction is that this historical site is presented entirely in a digital format.

In collaboration with Microsoft, the Greek government initiated a project aimed at both preserving archaeological sites and perpetuating the inspiration of the modern Olympics. Brad Smith, Microsoft President, aptly summarized the project by stating, “It’s a milestone… that helped us bring technology and culture and history together so we can preserve it.”

This Augmented Reality (AR) project stands as a pioneering endeavor, being the first of its kind to be implemented on-site, offering an entirely new and immersive experience. Similar to the mechanics of Pokémon Go, users download an app and superimpose digital holograms onto the physical world through their smartphones. In a time when the ongoing pandemic continues to impact travel, this technology enables anyone to embark on a virtual tour. You can explore the virtual tour on this website: https://olympiacommongrounds.gr/

To create this exceptional experience, Microsoft captured hundreds of thousands of images using cameras and drones. These images, coupled with Microsoft’s advanced AI technology and valuable insights from archaeologists, collectively transformed raw imagery into a masterful work of art that stands before us today. The results accurately depict statues and structures as close to their original form as one can imagine. During the unveiling, middle schoolers attending the event with Greece’s Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, described the app as an educational tool with tremendous potential for enhancing teaching in schools.

Whether experienced in person or virtually, this endeavor offers a profound insight into the historical context of the time. Both the app and website provide viewers with audio descriptions of each building and event, akin to a knowledgeable tour guide leading them through the historical site. Visitors depart with more than just vivid images; they gain a deeper understanding of what life during the Olympics was like 2000 years ago, the purpose behind each structure, the individuals who utilized them, and much more.

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