All the better to see you with: using 3D visualisation in humanities teaching and research

In this paper, we present the work done in the framework of the "Visionary Cross" project, starting from the digitization of the Ruthwell Cross to the creation of a web-based digital edition of the Dream of the Rood, as it is carved on the Cross. The 3D data has been collected and processed with the explicit aim of creating a multimedia framework able to present the highly detailed digital model acquired with 3D Scanning technology, together with the transcription and translation of the runes that can be found on its surface. The textual and spatial information are linked through a system of bi-directional links called Spots, which allow the users to navigate freely over the multimedia content, keeping the 3D and textual data synchronized.