“In The Eyes Of”: Exploring Cultural Landscapes Through Digital Innovation
A research project that explores how digital technologies can enrich the discovery and interpretation of natural and cultural heritage.
"In The Eyes Of" is a research project that brings together USI’s UNESCO Chair in ICT within the SECreTour project, UNESCO Chair in Anthropology of Health, Biosphere and Healing Systems, (University of Genova), ETH Zurich and Virginia Tech for the exploration of cultural heritage through the use of state-of-the-art digital technologies.
Starting from the territory of Carona, the project aims to experiment with new technologies that will enhance the visitor's experience through the provision of accurate and authentic information on points of interest, local stories, natural surroundings, and heritage.
Based on the data and insights gathered during the development phase, a prototype digital experience has been created and will be accessible via smartphone. The content has been developed through the participation of experts of the territory, who have shared their knowledge and interpretation. The project’s name reflects the idea that every place can be analyzed, interpreted, or perceived in a different way, depending on the lenses through which it is viewed. For example, a resident and a biologist may interpret the territory in a very different way, each bringing their own knowledge, experience, and interests.
The experience will be tested in Carona, beginning in the historic village center and continuing through the surrounding woodland areas. Throughout the journey, visitors will explore elements of the local cultural and natural heritage, with a particular focus on Monte San Giorgio. This mountain, visible from the Church of San Giorgio, has inspired many of the sacred sites found throughout the region and serves as a recurring theme within the experience.
Participants will be able to use the prototype while exploring the selected area, allowing them to freely access a series of audio content that will guide them during their exploration of cultural and natural heritage. The goal is not to substitute a human guide, but to study how digital technologies can support the autonomous exploration of the territory and foster a stronger awareness, as well as attention to the landscape and how it shapes local heritage.
The ultimate goal is to understand whether this technology can provide a seemingness experience that feels natural and easy to use to the average user and whether it could actually be useful during the exploration of a culturally rich area with the correct interpretation of its history. Feedback on usability and perceived value will be gathered during the testing day.
To those interested in participating in the testing, twenty volunteers will be selected before the 10th of June.
During the activity, participants will be provided with a smartphone to follow a guided route through the historic village and the surrounding woodlands. At the end of the experience, participants will be invited to share their impressions and feedback. Both people who are already familiar with Carona and those visiting for the first time are welcome to participate.
Test date: 16 June 2026 (two sessions available: 9:40 a.m. or 11:40 a.m.)
Alternative date in case of bad weather: 22 June 2026
Duration: approximately 1 hour
Meeting point: Carona village (details will be communicated to selected participants)
Compensation: CHF 50 in LVGA vouchers
The results of the research will be presented and discussed during a public meeting scheduled for Fall 2026. More information on the event will be published in the coming months.