Application of 3D Laser Scanner in Digitization and Virtual Reality of Numido-Punic Funerary Monument: The Soumaa's Mausoleum (Constantine, Algeria)

Algeria's cultural heritage, from ancient structures to stunning landscapes, serves as a powerful symbol of both its national identity and humanity's shared knowledge. The Soumaa of El Khroub, a Numido-Punic mausoleum in northeast Algeria, dating from the 2nd century BC, it was classified as a national monument in 1900 and recognized by UNESCO in 2002. However, despite its inestimable value, this heritage faces a number of risks, whether natural, environmental or anthropogenic. Although institutions recognize its importance, lack of proper maintenance and harmful actions are contributing to irreversible damage. The aim of this research is to develop a digital documentation, visualization of a funerary monument and data management. monument through the creation of a detailed 3D model. This involves employing laser scanning TLS 3D and point cloud processing to obtain precise measurements of the monument's components, aiming at facilitating restoration and preservation efforts. It will be also accessible to researchers, curators, architects and other professionals. To cover the entire site, 17 scanning stations have been planned, including 13 for the monument itself and 4 for the site as a whole. The end result will be a three-dimensional representation of the monument with all its dimensional details, incorporating a variety of data such as structural, architectural, historical and technical aspects. In addition, to enhance the cultural importance of the monument, the data from the 360-degree scan was used to create a virtual reality experience, enriched with descriptive texts and photographs. This initiative demonstrates a positive commitment to the use of virtual reality as an educational tool, offering visitors an interactive immersion in the history and significance of the monument. This innovative also makes it accessible to a wider audience, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of its historical and cultural significance.