This paper explores the application of 3D digital modeling in prehistoric archaeology through three Mediterranean case studies: Haghia Triada (Crete), Borg in-Nadur (Malta), and Polizzello (Sicily). It demonstrates how archaeologist-led virtual reconstructions go beyond visualization, functioning as interpretive tools for understanding spatial organization, ritual practice, and architectural development. The paper contrasts this approach with AI-generated modeling, highlighting the limitations of automated reconstructions in capturing the interpretive nuance essential to archaeological reasoning. It argues that despite advances in artificial intelligence, archaeologist-driven 3D modeling remains vital for producing analytically robust, contextually informed, and methodologically transparent representations of the prehistoric past.

Technical-scientific activities have been developed by ENEA, in the frame of the PNRR CHANGES-Cultural Heritage Innovation for Next-Gen Sustainable Society-project, aimed at the diagnostic-cognitive analysis of the Camponeschi Monument in the Basilica of San Giuseppe Artigiano in L'Aquila. As a product of late Gothic eclecticism, this Monument holds particular significance due to the controversies surrounding its attribution and the complexity of its relief surfaces. The measurement campaign was conducted by applying a multi-technique integrated approach. Following the indication of the restorers and art historians, particular attention has been devoted to identifying details not clearly visible to the naked eye. A new imaging prototype system based on LIF (Laser Induced Fluorescence) has been applied. Moreover, a 3D photogrammetric model has been produced to integrate the diagnostic analysis. Some useful information for deepening the knowledge of the artwork has been obtained.

This paper presents a comparative analysis between traditional archaeological landscape interpretation and outputs derived from artificial intelligence and multispectral remote sensing. The study focuses on the middle Tanagro Valley, where NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) and the Semi-Automatic Classification Plugin (SCP) for QGIS were applied to satellite and drone imagery to detect cropmarks and soilmarks indicative of buried structures. These results were compared with expert archaeological interpretations based on photointerpretation and historical data. The objective is to evaluate the predictive validity of automated processing versus manual interpretation and to assess the effectiveness of automated classification in reconstructing settlement patterns. Results highlight the potential of integrated approaches in enhancing archaeological detection, while also acknowledging risks of overfitting and false positives in complex landscapes.

The growing interest in art history, architecture, and urban history, combined with international initiatives promoting cultural heritage digitization, has underscored the importance of digital platforms for documenting and managing built heritage. This paper presents a systematic literature mapping of recent scientific production on digital tools applied to architectural heritage. Through a review of methodological approaches, the study highlights key trends such as metadata-based modeling, semantic data integration, and real-time systems. Results reveal the application of advanced technologies, like laser scanning, computer vision, drones, and BIM/CIM integration, for multi-scale documentation, from individual buildings to urban contexts. Terms like hybrid and integrated describe workflows linking representation, simulation, and generative design. The concept of virtualization, particularly in digital twins, is prominent for proposing comparative analyses and unified data management systems. This research contributes to understanding the interplay between traditional preservation practices and innovative technologies, offering pathways for interdisciplinary heritage interpretation and documentation.

As part of the Pandosia Anglona Project, of which the Institute of Cultural Heritage Sciences (CNR) is a partner, geophysical investigations were carried out with the aim to identifying structures of archaeological interest. The investigation area is located on the right of the road that connects Policoro with Tursi, on the top of a hill 262 m a.s.l. The Anglona hill dominates the lower valley of the Agri and Sinni rivers rising in the middle of the hilly system that divides the two rivers, at almost equal distance between these two streams. Geophysical investigation method geoelectrics was used.