Nurturing Italian Geo-palaeontological Heritage with Virtual Palaeontology: Preliminary Report of Its Application in Two Natural History Museums

Abstract In this manuscript, we present a preliminary report on the use of virtual palaeontology methodologies in two natural history museums central Italy, Geology and Paleontology Museum Florence Civic Natural Sciences Faenza. Despite differences between (in terms history, type size collections, etc.), surface computed tomography (CT) scans has allowed acquisition consistent amount data to create digital copies selected specimens plan several future projects sparked from these methodologies. Our first step focused selection scanning sample: historically relevant specimen case museum, fragile for Faenza museum local yet internationally known site, Cava Monticino, dated Late Miocene. The techniques included three high-resolution scanners, with different specifications, acquire medical scanner obtain CT scans. outputs were excellent specimens, whereas investigations visualisations presence embedded bones fossiliferous blocks Monticino. resulting 3D raw represent invaluable resources that are currently planning implement their exhibitions using visualisation devices (e.g. AR web apps, touchscreens) or 3D-printed touchable specimens.