Interreg Europe spotlights a compelling case of virtual reality being used to enrich heritage tourism at the ASTRA Open Air Museum in Sibiu, Romania. Through a 3D animated world, guests are invited into vivid reconstructions of traditional rural life—architecture, landscapes, customs, and daily routines—creating an emotional and narrative-rich experience.

The project blends the archaic charm of rural traditions with modern technology. Visitors don VR headsets and become part of the story themselves, moving beyond passive observation to immersive participation. This novel approach strikes a balance between preserving cultural heritage and engaging contemporary audiences in fresh, dynamic ways.

The museum’s VR experience was enabled by targeted funding—a substantial grant under the EEA Grants—with impressive results: it drew around 9,000 visitors, both local and international. Its launch was also supported by a vibrant cultural program that included artisan workshops, food events, thematic fairs, and markets, further enriching the immersive offering.

We encourage exploring the original article for a richer understanding of how ASTRA transformed cultural storytelling through digital innovation: Interreg Europe – Good practice of immersive VR tourism experience.

#Innovative tourism #Smart tourism #Smart destinations