From Excavation to Visual Narrative: Methodologies for Enhancing the Palmavera Nuragic Complex

This paper analyses how virtual archaeology — now understood as an integrated system that combines rigorous scientific documentation with modern storytelling strategies — can be used to produce digital and analogue outputs. The case study concerns the Nuragic complex of Palmavera (Alghero), which was the subject of a digital documentation campaign conducted by the GRA·VIS LAB of the Department of Architecture, Design, and Urban Planning, University of Sassari, as part of the initiatives for the nomination of Nuragic sites to the UNESCO World Heritage List. The acquisition and reconstruction of the archaeological remains was guided by integrating the deductive method (based on the laws of statics and constructive logic) with the analogical method (based on typological comparison with other contemporary monuments). The research’s originality lies in its use of a digital model as an invisible foundation for creating outputs of high communicative value.  Axonometric cross-sections, timelines and narrative illustrations have been used to translate the technical data into educational panels that make the site accessible and understandable to a diverse audience, bringing together scientific protection with inclusive and engaging cultural enjoyment.