The article presents the main results of the implementation of the project "Virtual Denisova Cave in Altai", which was aimed at creating virtual 3D models of the cave and some of the most characteristic finds, as well as developing software for interactive visualization of the results of archaeological research in the virtual space of the model. In addition to preserving information about a unique natural and archaeological site, the virtual 3D model of Denisova Cave is designed to solve a number of scientific and practical tasks. The project is the first Russian experience of virtual 3D modeling of a Paleolithic cave site.
Keywords: virtual archeology, laser scanning, 3D model, visualization, Denisova cave, Paleolithic.
Introduction
Currently, one of the most promising archaeological sites for studying the most ancient human culture and the surrounding natural environment in Northern Eurasia is the multi-layered Paleolithic site in Denisova Cave in the north-west of Gorny Altai. The loose sediment column of the cave contains more than 20 lithological layers that contain archaeological material from various epochs-from the Middle Paleolithic to the late Middle Ages. The collection of finds from the central hall, two galleries and the entrance area of the cave totals tens of thousands of items. The most important discoveries are related to the study of the Paleolithic layers of Denisova Cave. The anthropological remains of a previously unknown subspecies of man found in the layer of the initial stage of the Upper Paleolithic became a world-class scientific sensation.
The preservation of information about Denisova Cave as a unique natural and archaeological site using the entire arsenal of modern computer methods, in particular, the creation of its virtual (digital, computer) 3D model, is of undoubted importance and relevance.
The term "virtual archeology" was coined in 1990 by P. Reilly, one of the pioneers of the use of 3D computer modeling and visualization for stu ...
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