Russian Experts Create Digital Twin of Ancient City Without Excavation
Using remote sensing technology, researchers built a detailed 3D model of an archaeological site in Iraq — preserving the ruins without a single dig.
Russian specialists have unveiled a revolutionary approach to archaeology: a precise digital reconstruction of an ancient settlement created entirely through remote sensing methods, eliminating the need for destructive excavation.
Details of the large-scale BIM modeling project were shared at a press conference hosted by the Izvestia International Media Center. Dmitry Kesya, director of geodetic control and digital measurement at SEVERIN DEVELOPMENT, explained the work.
Modern technologies made it possible to recreate the geometry of the ancient city with unprecedented accuracy — something impossible with traditional archaeological methods.
The digital model is already being used to plan fieldwork. A targeted expedition is scheduled for this year, with excavation sites to be chosen based on the digital map. Team members are also being trained to collect and process data in real time using new tools.
Researchers say the Russian innovation is transforming heritage studies, offering both unmatched precision and maximum preservation of fragile artifacts for future generations.
