Promoting the Rich Cultural Legacy of Pieria, Through Geospatial Documentation

Cultural heritage sites are invaluable assets that require meticulous preservation while fostering sustainable tourism development. Ranging from ancient years to the Byzantine era, archaeological sites attract tourists all over the world, all year round. The world’s increasing demand for cultural heritage tourism requires taking steps towards sustainable conservation, management, and promotion. In this chapter, the role of geospatial documentation of selected well-known monuments of Pieria is described. The sites included are ancient archaeological sites (e.g., ancient Pidna), Byzantine monasteries (e.g., Saint Dionysios of Olympus), and traditional settlements (e.g., Palaios Panteleimonas). Using high-end techniques and equipment, such as terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and aerial photogrammetry, 3D models were produced. The models were integrated into a web-GIS platform, created with open-access software, combining spatial information with historical data to create an interactive database. Additionally, a virtual tour was designed and embedded into the platform. Results demonstrate that geospatial documentation significantly improves the understanding of monument conditions, facilitating timely conservation interventions, while minimizing physical site disturbances. The creation of digital twins and virtual tours allows an alternative tourism experience and promotes broader cultural engagement. The chapter highlights the importance of adopting geospatial technologies in heritage-rich regions like Pieria to promote sustainable tourism practices while preserving cultural integrity.