Redefining Ancient Idalion: A Hybrid Narrative of Spatial and Digital Experience
Nikolaos Kallenos
Description
Redefining Ancient Idalion: A Hybrid Narrative of Spatial and Digital Experience arises from a diploma thesis that reinterprets the archaeological site of Idalion by integrating physical and digital narratives, approaching it as part of a wider network connected to the contemporary village. A series of lightweight observatory structures placed at key public locations introduce visitors to the history of the ancient city, creating a dialogue between past and present.
The journey culminates in a lightweight pedestrian bridge above the existing pathway connecting the museum to the palace. Along the route, three stops are positioned at the main excavation areas, where augmented reality (AR) applications enrich the experience with digital reconstructions and information related to the excavations. In parallel, a study space designed as an extension of the museum incorporates virtual reality (VR) technologies, allowing visitors to experience the archaeological site within an immersive 1:1 digital environment.
Digital technologies support the project’s presentation. A VR application lets users walk through the proposed pathway at full scale and in its real context, while AR projects the proposal onto a physical maquette, visualising the intervention within its surrounding landscape.
Affiliations
Affiliation: Department of Architecture, University of Cyprus.
Partner Organisations: Museum of Idalion, Municipality of Idalion.
Acknowledgements: This project was developed as a diploma thesis at the University of Cyprus under the supervision of Dr. Odysseas Kontovourkis, Dr. Marios C. Phokas and Dr. George Artopoulos. The project focuses on the archaeological site of Idalion and explores the integration of physical and digital narratives through architectural design, VR and AR.
Disclaimer: The views and proposals presented are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Cyprus or any associated institution.
CREDITS
Supervisors: Dr. Odysseas Kontovourkis, Dr. Marios C. Phocas, Dr. George Artopoulos
Archaeologist: Dr. Maria Hadjicosti
Museum Personnel
Dr. Savia Palate
Nikolaos Kallenos
Nikolaos Kallenos is an architect, 3D visual artist and founder of Eidos 3D Studio, a creative practice specialising in architectural visualisation, CGI production, interactive technologies and immersive digital experiences. With over six years of experience in visual arts and architectural representation, he collaborates with architects, construction developers and design professionals, producing high-quality renderings, animations and real-time interactive applications for architectural projects.
Having completed his Integrated Master in Architecture at the University of Cyprus, Nikolaos combines architectural thinking with advanced visualisation techniques. His expertise includes architectural CGI films, real-time visualisation, virtual reality experiences and digital environments that communicate design concepts through engaging visual narratives.
Through Eidos 3D Studio, Nikolaos explores the intersection of architecture, digital art and emerging technologies. His work extends beyond traditional visualisation to the development of interactive 3D experiences for websites, VR applications and real-time digital platforms, creating innovative ways for users to engage with architecture and design. His interests include visualisation, VR, AI, interactive media and digital storytelling.