Leveraging NeRF for Cultural Heritage Preservation: A Case Study of the Katolička Porta in Novi Sad

In recent years, digital technologies have become indispensable tools for the preservation and documentation of architectural and cultural heritage. Traditional 3D modeling methods, such as photogrammetry and laser scanning, require specialized equipment and extensive manual processing. Neural Radiance Field, an AI-based technique, enables photorealistic 3D reconstructions from a limited set of 2D images. NeRF excels in cultural heritage documentation by effectively rendering reflective and translucent surfaces, which often pose challenges to conventional methods. These approaches significantly accelerate workflows, reduce costs, and minimize manual intervention, making them ideal for inaccessible or fragile sites. The application of NeRF combined with drone-acquired high-resolution images, as demonstrated in the Katolička Porta project in Novi Sad, produces highly detailed and accurate digital replicas. This integration also supports virtual restoration and texture enhancement, enabling non-invasive exploration of conservation scenarios. Katolička Porta, a historically significant site that has evolved over centuries, benefits from these advanced digital preservation techniques, which help maintain its unique architectural and cultural identity. This integration of technologies represents the future of cultural heritage conservation, offering innovative possibilities for visualization, research, and protection.