An application of the virtual reality 360° concept to the Great Zimbabwe monument

Virtual reality (VR) 360° technology offers a novel solution to enhance accessibility and educational value for UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as demonstrated by its application at Great Zimbabwe National Monument. The study found that immersive virtual tours, created using spherical imaging and stitched high-resolution software, can provide comprehensive navigation of key archaeological sites like the Great Enclosure and Valley Ruins while delivering informative commentaries. This approach aims to make the monument accessible globally to those with physical limitations or financial constraints, potentially increasing visitation rates. The research suggests that such VR tours may serve as an effective tool for heritage education, though further studies are needed to assess their impact on visitor behavior.

Njerekai, C. (2019). An application of the virtual reality 360° concept to the Great Zimbabwe monument. Journal of Heritage Tourism, 15(5), 567–579. https://doi.org/10.1080/1743873x.2019.1696808