Optimization Strategies for Standalone Virtual Reality Experiences: the Virtual Reconstruction of the City of Aquinum

Abstract

This study presents an optimized 3D modelling procedure for the development of immersive Virtual Reality (iVR) experiences. It has been tested by conducting the virtual reconstruction of the Roman city of Aquinum (Italy), a key archaeological site. The resulting 3D model demonstrates a high Level of Detail (LoD) across a total area of 17,570 m2 (2,470 m2 of which are explorable) with a file size of only 46.2 MB, incorporating just six unique textures. This research not only delivers an accurate reconstruction of the city of Aquinum but also introduces an effective optimization method based on open-source tools.