3D tour online

Exploring nature virtually: The evolution of the Maroussi Natural History Museum

Dream: The Maroussi Natural History Museum aimed to expand its reach and accessibility through a comprehensive digital transition. The vision was to create a virtual environment where users could explore the museum's extensive collections in 3D, making natural history accessible to a broader audience.

Idea: Initiated in 2018, the project envisioned an upgraded web presence for the museum, incorporating a new website, a virtual tour, interactive online games, 3D exhibits, and augmented reality applications. This digital enhancement aimed to complement the physical museum experience, offering an immersive exploration of natural history.

Realization: The realization of this vision involved awarding the project to a private company through a competitive tender process. The resulting virtual tour application allows users to navigate the museum's spaces and examine a large part of its exhibits in 3D, bringing the museum's treasures to life in the digital realm.

Challenges and Solutions: Modernizing the museum's online infrastructure presented various challenges, including the need for specialized 3D recording equipment and the training of museum staff. The solution lay in partnering with experienced companies capable of implementing and maintaining such sophisticated digital projects, ensuring a seamless transition to the virtual space.

Innovation: This project represents a significant innovation in the field of natural history museums in Greece, offering one of the most comprehensive and interactive digital experiences nationwide. By integrating 3D models, augmented reality, and online games, the museum has set a new standard for digital engagement in the cultural sector.

Effect: Since the launch of the virtual tour application, the museum has seen a notable increase in visits, both virtual and physical, from various parts of Greece. This indicates the project's success in enhancing the museum's visibility and attractiveness to a wider audience.

Target Audience: The virtual tour is designed primarily for students, educators, researchers, and enthusiasts of natural history, as well as individuals unable to visit the museum in person. This inclusive approach broadens educational opportunities and fosters a deeper appreciation of natural history among diverse groups.

Sustainability: The practice is deemed sustainable and replicable, with affordable costs making it accessible for other institutions interested in digital transformation. The availability of specialized companies in this domain further facilitates the adoption of similar initiatives.

Digital Tools: The project utilized state-of-the-art 3D recording technology, alongside the necessary training for museum staff to manage and curate the digital content effectively. This technological investment has been pivotal in creating an immersive and educational online experience.

Funding: The development of the museum's digital features was funded by the Municipality of Maroussi, which selected the most competitive offer through a tender process. This strategic investment underscores the municipality's commitment to enhancing cultural and educational resources.

Future: With the ambition to digitize its entire collection, the Maroussi Natural History Museum plans to continue expanding its virtual tour to include 3D models of all its exhibits. This ongoing effort will further enrich the museum's digital offerings, ensuring that its vast collection of stuffed animals and other natural wonders can be explored by audiences worldwide.

Responsible institution: Museum of Natural History of the Municipality of Maroussi
Good practice link: https://mfi.maroussi.gr/
Address: Kyprion Agoniston & Kairi 2, 151 26 Maroussi, Greece

Contact person on good practice: Koletti Lida, mfi@maroussi.gr