Development of a GIS environment for archaeological multipurpose applications: the Fano historic centre

In this paper we present a methodological workflow developed within the "ArcheoFano" project, improving collection, organization and management of a GIS data structure for the urban-archaeological Roman centre of Fano town. In this context, the proposed methodology is aimed to build up an integrated and multipurpose system. The starting point is data collection by means of archival (for documentation purposes) and highresolution survey techniques (for metrical purposes); afterwards, a conceptual data model organizes archaeological data and realizes an easily updating solution that automatically produce short reports to share with the users. The open source QGIS is used to develop the spatial extension with the aim to manage 2D/3D numerical cartography and detailed 3D model (using open tools such as Virtual Terrain and Enviro). The final geo-database contains all the useful information to support urban planners decision-making. The ability to structure data in a maintainable way helps to ensure cross-disciplinary cooperation in the management and protection of heritage resources. Lastly, an Augmented Reality (AR) experience is carried out. Linked directly to the geo-database, AR allows a quick real time visualization of GIS layers and 3D models, showing the way forward smart tourism and virtual museum applications. This technology is needful when the archaeological findings must be conceived due to conservation issues.