Background

The Motilla del Azuer archaeological site, located in Daimiel (Ciudad Real), is a prehistoric fortified settlement of significant historical value. Like many small cultural sites, its physical access and preservation pose challenges, especially for community inclusion and broader visibility.

Objectives & Tools Used

To democratize access and enhance heritage interpretation, the local municipality launched a digital virtualization initiative employing photogrammetry, 360° imaging, and virtual reality—all powered by largely free or open-source tools.

 Key Features & Tools Applied

•  Photogrammetry: High-resolution 3D models were created using RealityCapture software, built from hundreds of photos to accurately capture structures and details in 3D format. 
•  360° Panoramas: A professional Insta360 Pro camera was used to capture immersive 360° photographic content of the site’s surroundings, enhancing contextual understanding for users. 
•  Online Exhibition via Sketchfab: The resulting 3D model was uploaded to Sketchfab, making it freely accessible to visitors, researchers, and schools online. 

 Outcomes & Impact

• Increased Accessibility: Virtual experiences let remote visitors, younger audiences, and individuals with mobility challenges explore the site virtually.
• Educational Value: Schools and community groups can interact digitally with the site without physical constraints.
• Cultural Sustainability: Digital documentation contributes to heritage preservation, ensuring that fragile archaeological knowledge is safeguarded and shareable.
• Open Access: Publishing on Sketchfab allows anyone to interact with the content under open digital access principles.

 Relevance to Small Museums

• Low-Cost Yet High-Impact: A small institution leveraged open platforms and free tools to generate professionally meaningful digital content.
• Inclusive Outreach: Virtual 3D access supports broader audience inclusion, culturally and physically.
• Digital Storytelling in Practice: The site becomes a narrated experience, not just a static exhibit, aligning with immersive, inclusive storytelling strategies.

This case perfectly illustrates how small cultural operators can employ accessible digital tools—like 3D modeling, VR-ready images, and shared platforms—to broaden inclusion and create immersive digital heritage experiences.