## 7 Discussion  
### Technical Aspects of This Methodology  
The archaeological complex of the Benzu rock shelter and cave constitutes a paradigmatic case in which basic archaeological research, preventive conservation, and heritage socialisation converge under a theoretical-practical approach that combines scientific rigour with the application of advanced digital methodologies. In this context, the research team from the University of Cadiz has played a key role through systematic excavations and surveys, which have produced significant results for the understanding of Middle Palaeolithic hunter-gatherer societies--characterised by Mode 3 technologies--as well as for the study of Neolithic and Bronze Age communities. This continued research has established a solid empirical basis for interpreting the site and has justified the need to adopt high-precision documentation procedures. The combined implementation of 3D laser scanning, digital photogrammetry, and GNSS georeferencing systems has enabled the generation of comprehensive digital models of both the rock shelter and the cave, preserving their topographic and geomorphological configuration with sub-5 mm accuracy. This level of resolution falls within the range considered optimal for heritage documentation, in accordance with the guidelines established in the Seville Principles (2011). The capacity of these technologies to operate in environments with difficult access, limited lighting, or complex morphologies [65; 66]--as is the case at Benzu, where conventional techniques proved unfeasible--makes them particularly suitable tools for non-invasive documentation in sensitive spaces. Nevertheless, it must be emphasised that the mere production  
Figure 8: Plan and sections of Benzü cave. of high-quality digital models does not represent a significant scientific advancement by itself unless accompanied by proper archaeological contextualization and integration into conservation and management strategies [31]. In this regard, the models generated have been validated not only for their geometric accuracy but also for their practical utility in preventive conservation tasks. They have also been employed for fracture measurement, providing a crucial support tool for decision-making in heritage protection. Integration with GIS platforms, facilitated by the use of differential GNSS, has further enabled precise georeferencing of the 3D models, expanding their potential use in spatial analysis, land-use planning, and multitemporal monitoring. The updated topographic survey of the site has made it possible to achieve the proposed objectives. Firstly, it has provided a more accurate and detailed database obtained through 3D scanning, enabling virtual reconstructions of the site and its integration into interpretation centres. Secondly, it has facilitated the monitoring of the site's conservation status through multitemporal comparisons. Finally, it has opened the possibility of producing both physical (scale models) and virtual (interactive models or augmented reality experiences) three-dimensional reconstructions aimed at improving the accessibility, dissemination, and enhancement of the site--particularly within the urban and cultural context of the autonomous city of Ceuta. Furthermore, the outreach activities promoted by the research group--including open days, lectures, popular science publications, and guided tours--have made a decisive contribution to reinforcing the public dimension of heritage. Despite the inherent advantages of these technologies, their application requires critical reflection. Their effectiveness is directly conditioned by the availability of economic and technical resources, the specialised training of personnel, and appropriate methodological planning. Although powerful, these tools are not neutral as they involve key decisions regarding which elements are documented, what levels of precision are deemed acceptable, and how the generated data are interpreted [67].