PENEDO VIRTUAL: DEVELOPMENT PROCESS OF AN AUGMENTED REALITY APPLICATION FOR THE HISTORIC SITES OF PENEDO

Abstract

The use of technology can be a viable solution to conserve and promote the historical heritage of a city, especially considering the global technological advancements. With this in mind, this project explored the fusion of tradition and technology to preserve the heritage of Penedo, AL, using Augmented Reality (AR) technology. The "Penedo Virtual" application used QR Code markers to activate thematic videos narrating the history of tourist spots on users' mobile devices. The React framework and AR.js library were essential for creating an intuitive and engaging interface for the application. The project not only reignited fascination with Penedo's roots but also highlighted the vital role of digital tools in promoting tourism and cultural preservation. The interaction of users and the enrichment of participants' knowledge demonstrated the significant potential of AR in the cultural context, marking an innovative step for the city.

Keywords: Augmented Reality, Technology, Tourism, History, University Extension.