The "FINGERPRINTS" project aims to develop a gamified AR and AI-based application that will allow visitors to discover and experience the Appian Way in an immersive, playful, customized, and phygital way. By framing reproductions of the milestones along the Appian Way with the cameras of various devices, restoring them to their ancient function as signposts, an AR treasure hunt will be launched in the municipality of Benevento, a strategic point where the Via Appia Claudia and the Via Traiana meet. The milestones will be created by 3D scanning the originals, using sophisticated tools that allow for the acquisition and faithful digital reconstruction of the surface geometries without contact, and then reworked and 3D printed.
In the app, a conversational avatar will guide users through a search for milestones that will serve as points of interest (POIs) for accessing targeted digital content (adults, children, experts, tourists) in various formats (3D objects, videos, factsheets, etc.) after solving puzzles, quizzes, and tests. Users will also be able to map the "Places of the Appian Way" by recording their location, entering short, emotional descriptions explaining their choices, and uploading images. This will create a true community, fostering civic engagement and the narrative of the territories, and allowing visitors to leave their digital footprint.