HBIM Workflows and immersive visualization for cultural heritage conservation and enhancement – The case of the Chiostro di Santa Maria della Pace in Rome

The increasing adoption of digital tools in the cultural heritage domain is fostering the evolution of new methodological frameworks that combine accurate 3D data acquisition, semantic information modeling, and advanced visualization techniques. Among these, the integration of Heritage Building Information Modeling (HBIM) with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and immersive environments is emerging as a key strategy to support documentation, conservation, and also public engagement. In this context, the research project DTCity – Digital Twin City investigates the application of digital twin paradigms to urban heritage systems. A central component of this research is the development of a complete HBIM workflow, starting from high-resolution survey campaigns (laser scanning and photogrammetry), followed by 3D modeling, data structuring and integration of historical, architectural, and material information. These models serve as a foundation for constructing digital twins that support not only heritage management but also interpretation and communication. The pilot case study focuses on the former convent and Chiostro of the Church of Santa Maria della Pace in Rome, an outstanding example of Renaissance architecture attributed to Donato Bramante and currently functioning as the DART contemporary art museum. The complex’s architectural richness and current exhibition use made it an ideal testing ground for immersive digital tools. From the survey of the building, an HBIM model was developed using a Scan-to-BIM approach. The HBIM model and GIS data of the urban context were funneled into the real-time open source visualization platform Epic Games Twinmotion, to produce a navigable 3D virtual environment. The system is, under refinement in terms of lighting and asset optimization, already enabling immersive site exploration and supporting remote access and visitor orientation. Its scope is also to support conservation and management activities, simplifying data analysis interpretation for the conservation and management experts of built heritage, even without a specific technical knowledge of BIM. This use of digital visualization tools highlights how these emerging technologies can contribute to the enhancement and dissemination of heritage content, particularly when integrated into larger digital workflows. The case study demonstrates how the combination of HBIM, GIS and virtual environments, within the framework of the DTCity project, can support new approaches to heritage conservation and enhancement. Future developments will focus on improving interoperability and expanding user interaction models