A Virtual Heritage Project
A scientifically grounded reconstruction of the Roman colony Colonia Iulia Ilici Augusta, combining archaeology, historical research, Blender, Unreal Engine, and Extended Matrix methodology.
Why Ilici?
Ilici represents an important example of Roman urban development in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula. Founded over an earlier Iberian settlement and later transformed into the Roman colony Colonia Iulia Ilici Augusta, the city reflects the cultural and urban transition between indigenous Iberian society and Roman colonization.
Its strategic position near the Mediterranean coast, fertile agricultural territory, and connection to regional trade routes contributed to its political and economic importance during the Augustan period. Archaeological discoveries from La Alcudia, including fragments of urban infrastructure, inscriptions, baths, and territorial organization, continue to provide valuable insight into Roman urbanism and daily life in Hispania.
Despite its historical significance, much of ancient Ilici remains difficult to visualize today due to the fragmented nature of the archaeological remains. This makes the site particularly suitable for virtual reconstruction, where digital technologies can help reconnect architecture, landscape, and historical interpretation into a more accessible and immersive experience.
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What was Ilici?
Colonia Iulia Ilici Augusta, located at the present-day archaeological site of La Alcudia in Elche, Spain, was one of the most important Roman colonies in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula. Built over an earlier Iberian settlement, the city developed into a significant urban, agricultural, and commercial center during the 1st century BC thanks to its strategic position near the Mediterranean coast and regional trade routes.
Today, much of ancient Ilici survives only through archaeological remains, scattered artifacts, and fragments of its urban landscape. This project explores how digital heritage technologies can help reconnect those fragments into a coherent visual reconstruction of the ancient city and its surrounding territory.
Developed as part of my Master’s degree in Virtual Heritage at the University of Alicante, this reconstruction combines archaeological research, historical interpretation, and 3D technologies to recreate the urban layout, architecture, agricultural landscape, and natural environment of Roman Ilici as it may have appeared during the Augustan period.
