Chapter 3: Transforming Dubrovnik’s Legacy: Extended Reality and the Tourist Experience

Dubrovnik, Croatia, renowned for its well-preserved mediaeval walls and architectural treasures, offers a rich tapestry of historical experiences. This study explores how Extended Reality (XR) technologies, encompassing Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR), can significantly enhance the tourist experience in Dubrovnik. VR can immerse visitors in the vibrant past of the city, allowing them to witness significant historical events and interact with virtual characters representing historical figures. Through a VR headset, visitors can walk the bustling streets of the Ragusa Republic, experiencing the construction of landmarks like the Rector’s Palace. AR, on the other hand, overlays digital information onto real-world landmarks, revealing historical details, architectural plans or even recreating structures in their former glory. XR technologies also bridge cultural and linguistic gaps with AR translation tools that translate signage in real-time and interactive AR guides that narrate historical anecdotes and local legends. This paper aims to demonstrate how XR can transform Dubrovnik’s tourism industry by weaving the past into the present, fostering a deeper connection with its rich history and creating a more engaging and memorable experience for every visitor.