MANN Napoli launches MetaMuseo to digitize 400 artifacts in 3D

The National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) has announced the MetaMuseo project, a five-year initiative to digitize 400 artifacts from its storerooms in 3D, making them accessible online. In collaboration with Indiana University's Luddy School of Informatics, which also provides financial support, the project aims to enhance the study, conservation, and public enjoyment of works not currently on display. Director Paolo Giulierini stated that the MetaMuseo represents a new level of valorization for the deposits, reuniting contexts digitally. The digitization process involves capturing images from multiple angles to generate point clouds, then creating mesh models that are textured to replicate the original appearance. The team includes Cristiana Barandoni (Principal Investigator and project creator), Floriana Miele (archaeologist and catalog office manager), who will select the 400 pieces, and Bernard Frischer and Gabriele Guidi, co-directors of the Virtual World Heritage Laboratory, overseeing the 3D reproduction. Guidi emphasized that the resulting metric models serve both the general public and scholars, even enabling restoration hypotheses. Barandoni noted that the project protects and promotes the museum's hidden heritage, while Frischer highlighted opportunities for students and graduates. The MetaMuseo is funded by Indiana University and will involve students and experts in acquiring new techniques.