# Advanced Technologies for Geosite Visualization and Valorization: A Review
## 3 Examples of Geoheritage Visualization and Valorization through Innovative Technologies  
We provide hereunder a selection of the works that, in the last decade, have illustrated the use of innovative technologies for geosite visualization, for both educational and geotouristic purposes. Starting with a pioneering work [93], [PERSON] et al. have set up a VR-based tour focused on the Province of Salamanca, in the Las Quilamas Natural Park. They have made use of topographic and digital terrain models and geological layers, which can be included in a 3D model. They have used Google Earth to import placemarks of the geosites. For each one, the authors created a tab that showcases an illustration of the geological characteristics, integrated with photos and diagrams that allow to define the educational, scientific, and touristic value of each site. The authors have also proposed the use of augmented reality, enabling viewers to access the georeferenced thematic layers on their mobile devices. Again, [PERSON] et al. [94] have set up a virtual geological itinerary at the \"Las Batuecas Valley\" (Spain), identifying and evaluating ten geosites of major geological importance and scientific, educational and touristic significance. The virtual tour was made possible by using Google Earth so as to make the most of cutting-edge, innovative educational resources, i.e., 3D virtual flights, educational materials, digitized routes, georeferenced and linked to tables, sheets, photos, and QR codes. In an editorial by [PERSON] et al. [95], the authors introduced a Special Issue dedicated to the different digital technologies employed for the assessment, monitoring and promotion of geosites. Particularly worthy of mention is the work by [PERSON] [96], who reviewed the existing and emerging technologies for the characterization and interpretation of geosites. The author analyzes three main topics: georeferencing and mapping of geoheritage, 3D digital imaging (including photogrammetry and laser scanning) and experiments in the promotion of geoheritage using augmented reality. In the same Special Issue, particularly interesting is the work proposed by [PERSON] et al. [97], who have founded a small private company that develops graphic communication tools to promote geoheritage projects. Theypresent several examples of projects carried out for different public audiences, using different types of presentation. To point out how useful their approach to the communication of geosites and geoheritage can be, they illustrated the work they implemented for the Lubern Natural Park (France). Among the various products, a special mention needs to be made of the production of a short movie that illustrates alpine geology (in four languages) and the creation of a 14-min cartoon that showcases the several geosites and features that compose the park's geoheritage. A paper by [PERSON] et al. [98] presents the case study of the Seguret Valley (Piedmont, NW Italy). The use of geomatic tools, such as digital photogrammetry and a global navigation satellite system, have enabled the authors to produce a geomorphological map of the study area and the identification and selection of the most representative and relevant sites. Web Mapping tools based on GoogleMaps(r) have also been set up for the online dissemination of geoscience-related information, to be able to reach the broadest possible audience. Another paper by [PERSON] and [PERSON] [99] has been focused on cutting-edge geovisualization techniques by way of high-resolution images or 3D representation, which allow for the acquisition of accurate digital models. These virtual models of natural environment can be used to prevent and mitigate natural hazards in touristic places such as the Yosemite National Park, to keep a digital archive of vulnerable sites such as in the Valley of Geysers in Kamchatka, to create cave replicas, such as of the Chauvet cave in France, or to use augmented reality for tourists such as in the GeoGuide project.