Project digitally recreates a buried World War I battlefield
Imagine walking through a World War I excavation site—not wading through mud-filled trenches, but navigating a digital landscape rich with history, artifacts and human stories.
Researchers and the public can now explore Hill 80, a World War I battlefield in Belgium, through an immersive digital experience developed by Virginia Tech's Applied Research in Immersive Experiences and Simulations (ARIES) team. The project originated from a rescue archaeology effort to uncover evidence before a housing development was built on the site.
Led by Flemish archaeologist Simon Verdegem, the excavation uncovered trench systems, artifacts, and human remains from the battle. ARIES teamed up with experts to create a 3D digital environment that allows users to navigate the site, interact with artifacts, and learn about the stories behind the discoveries. The project showcases how universities are leveraging digital tools to preserve and share cultural heritage in innovative ways, transforming libraries into active partners in research and storytelling.
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