A Digital Journey to the Byzantine: An Investigation on Users' Virtual Tour Experiences

ABSTRACT In response to the digital shift sweeping the cultural landscape, museums and galleries have embraced technological advances. This study explores users' encounters with virtual art tours, with a particular focus on the Pera Museum's “From Istanbul to Byzantium” virtual tour. Twenty graduate students and alumni from New Media programs, chosen for their expertise in digital platforms, provided written responses regarding their experiences. Thematic analysis was employed to identify the benefits and limitations of virtual art engagement. Participants highlighted the freedom and accessibility offered by digital platforms but also pointed to significant technical shortcomings, including inadequate image resolution, cumbersome navigation, and lack of immersive features. Enhancing user engagement in virtual art tours requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both technological and experiential aspects. In this regard, recommendations include improving visual quality, incorporating interactive elements, and designing more socially engaging environments to enrich virtual museum experiences.