Safeguarding Banteay Chhmar through Digital Twins: Integrated Approaches for Research, Management, and Conservation

Abstract. This study presents the first phase of a digital twin initiative for the Banteay Chhmar archaeological complex, a large-scale and largely unrestored Khmer heritage site in northwestern Cambodia. In preparation for potential World Heritage nomination and ongoing conservation planning, the digital twin aims to integrate precise 3D documentation, monitoring capabilities, and public dissemination. Field surveys conducted in March 2025 employed a hybrid approach combining fixed terrestrial laser scanning, mobile SLAM LiDAR, and UAV-based photogrammetry. Each method was optimized according to site-specific requirements for accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility. The collected data were processed into high-resolution geometric models suitable for a range of applications, including structural behavior monitoring, restoration planning, academic analysis, and educational outreach.To ensure broad usability, the datasets are being published on the web-based 3D Digital Database (3DDB), which supports international standards such as 3D Tiles and COPC. The platform allows for accurate geospatial positioning and interactive visualization through web browsers and external tools. This paper discusses the documentation strategy, workflow, and technical challenges, while also considering the potential of the digital twin to support multi-stakeholder collaboration in heritage preservation. The results demonstrate a scalable, interoperable model for digitally managing complex archaeological landscapes.