Virtual Rome

Ancient Rome – a digital reconstruction

Leanne Waring 

The UROP Virtual Rome Project that I am currently seconded to is led by Dr Matthew Nicholls of the Department of Classics at Reading. Dr Nicholls spent the best part of 10 years digitally reconstructing ancient Rome via a digital programme called SketchUp. The model portrays Rome around 315AD, a date chosen for its ability to show off a multitude of splendid architecture. After teaching himself how to create a digital model of this Roman cityscape building by building, Dr Nicholls has now utilised this knowledge to teach others both about the Romans and about digital conservation. Continue reading