START4.0 has created a high-precision 3D digital model of Montarrenti Castle in Tuscany, using laser scanners and drones. This digital base will support audiovisual content, video mapping simulations and the planning of drone light shows. The project is part of the “Test Before Invest” services of ARTOUR – Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Tourism, co-funded by the Interreg Italy-France Maritime Programme.
H2: How START4.0 Digitised the Castle: Laser Scanners, Drones and Point Clouds
START4.0 carried out a three-dimensional survey of the castle with laser scanners and drones. The point clouds collected became a high-precision digital record of the whole complex.
The 3D model is more than an archive. It is a working tool that makes it possible to:
- produce audiovisual and generative content;
- simulate video mapping in advance, using the real geometry of the castle’s surfaces;
- design and optimise drone flight paths for future light shows;
- keep a reusable digital asset for further experiments.
The goal is to bring the castle to a wider audience. It shows how digital technologies can give new visibility to lesser-known cultural sites.
A Joint Effort in AI, Computer Vision and Live Entertainment
START4.0’s model is the foundation for the next steps. The Ligurian company LOGOS will integrate it with generative AI, computer vision and intelligent orchestration systems, with technical support from DARGOS FILM and LUMINOUS BEES. Together they form a single chain of skills: surveying, AI, video production and drone shows.
Cyber & AI: START4.0’s Compliance Assessment Service
Alongside 3D surveying, START4.0 offers a Cyber & AI compliance assessment service to companies taking part in ARTOUR. It checks whether digital platforms and applications, whether already in use or still in development, meet the security, data protection and compliance requirements of the European regulatory framework.
Examples of solutions that can be assessed include:
- guest experience platforms for hotels and other accommodation;
- online ticketing systems;
- interactive apps for museums and cultural sites;
- AI solutions that personalise tourism services.
The Context: ARTOUR’s Test Before Invest Services
ARTOUR is now in its operational phase. It provides innovation and digitalisation services to tourism and cultural businesses in Liguria, Tuscany, Sardinia, Corsica and the French region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. So far, 4 companies have been supported and 6 more applications are under review.
The service catalogue also includes:
- hands-on AI training for companies and professionals, delivered by ARTES4.0, covering content creation, data management and automation;
- a step-by-step support programme run by the Nice Côte d’Azur Chamber of Commerce. It covers awareness-raising, a digital maturity assessment, a tailored roadmap, training for managers and teams, and help with implementation.
How to Access START4.0 Services through ARTOUR
Tourism and cultural businesses in the cooperation area can apply through the expression of interest, open until January 2027.