Bridging Cultural Narratives with AR Technology: Unveiling the Missing Pieces of Fragmented Heritage

Reconstructing fragmented heritage artefacts presents a formidable challenge due to incomplete information, the need for specialised expertise, and the limitations in physical access. While AR (Augmented Reality) technology enables the combination of virtual objects with the real world, it can also be a potent solution. By digitally visualising the complete artefact, AR could display its original form. Furthermore, overlaid narratives and historical context directly on the fragments will enhance visitor understanding. A gap in research exists concerning solutions that specifically address the missing cultural narratives of fragmented heritage objects through AR, hindering the sustainable promotion of cultural richness. In this study, 3D modelling in augmented reality has been explored to reconstruct fragmented objects and build a complete form. It makes cultural heritage more accessible and engaging for a broader audience while eliminating the risk of further damage to fragile pieces. The study uses the SDLC (Software Development Life Cycle) linear sequential or waterfall models. We reconstructed the 3D model of the complete version of the heritage object based on literary resources and expert interviews. It is hypothesised that integrating an augmented reality (AR) platform substantially enhanced comprehension and appreciation for narrative reliefs, thereby making a sustainable contribution to the advancement of cultural richness.