AUGMENTED reality archaeology trails aiming to bring the history behind an island's prehistoric tombs and Norse inscriptions to life have been launched.
UHI North, West and Hebrides has unveiled two interactive augmented reality archaeology trails in Barra so that visitors can experience some of the island's most significant archaeological sites in an “entirely new way”.
The two trails are available at Dùn Bharpa and Cille Bharra through the Outer Hebrides Unearthed smartphone app.
The service draws on decades of archaeological research, with both sites being “digitally reimagined” to help visitors explore the islands' history through interactive and immersive storytelling.
At Dùn Bharpa, users can crawl inside a life-sized augmented reality reconstruction of a 5000-year-old Neolithic burial tomb to discover more about prehistoric spirituality and burial practices.
Meanwhile, those exploring Cille Bharra can watch runic inscriptions come to life within the chapel walls while exploring themes of belief and identity during Barra's early historic period.
Dr Rebecca Rennell, Barra and Harris Unearthed project manager and archaeology lecturer at UHI North, West and Hebrides, said she is “excited” for visitors to experience the historic sites through the new app.
“Barra is home to many stunning archaeological sites and landscapes, and we've really enjoyed finding ways to communicate their stories,” she said.
“Those who have used the Uist Unearthed app will notice some familiar digital tools: life-sized augmented reality models are still an important part of the Unearthed experience. But as a team we are passionate about pushing boundaries and trying new things, so users will also find some new approaches and interpretation devices embedded in the app and we're keen to know what people think.”
Viewed through a user’s smartphone, augmented reality tools overlay life-sized, 3D models of archaeological structures on the physical landscape, seamlessly blending interpretations of the past with the present.
Co-production has been “central” to the project as the team worked closely with local artist Sheena Beaton and pupils from Castlebay and Eoligarry primary schools to create original artwork and animations.
Dr Emily Gal, Barra and Harris Unearthed project coordinator, said: “Working with school pupils from Castlebay and Eoligarry has been a particular highlight of our work in Barra: the kids’ enthusiasm for their local archaeology and their imaginative responses to our interpretation challenges have been really inspiring.”
A third Barra site will be added to the app later this year, followed by three new sites across Harris in summer 2027 and a travelling exhibition in 2028.
The Outer Hebrides Unearthed project is led by the archaeology team at UHI North, West and Hebrides, based in South Uist and part of the UHI Archaeology Institute.
The Barra and Harris Unearthed Project has built on the success of the award-winning Uist Unearthed app, which used augmented reality to “transform” the way people experience archaeology across Uist.
Joe Macphee, head of Strategic Projects at UHI North, West and Hebrides, said: “The continued growth of the Unearthed programme demonstrates what can be achieved through sustained collaboration and a shared long-term vision.
“It showcases how UHI North, West and Hebrides is translating academic excellence in digital archaeology into projects that deliver meaningful cultural, educational and local economic impact, while positioning the Outer Hebrides as a leader in innovative heritage interpretation.”
Gaelic is also embedded throughout the project as the team worked closely with Ceòlas Uibhist to ensure all content is available bilingually.
Ceòlas Uibhist researcher Liam Crouse also recorded stories and folklore in Barra, allowing app users to listen to traditional tales at locations along each archaeological trail.
Kathleen Stewart, area team leader at HIE in Innse Gall, said: “We're pleased to have supported this innovative project, which uses state-of-the-art technology to create an engaging, high-quality tourism experience with Gaelic embedded throughout.
“It's fantastic to see two new sites being added to the trail, brought to life through interactive, immersive, bilingual digital storytelling.”
The Barra and Harris Unearthed Project is funded by Historic Environment Scotland, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), The National Lottery Heritage Fund, SSEN Transmission’s Regional Community Benefit Fund, and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.
The Outer Hebrides Unearthed app is free to download from app stores by searching Outer Hebrides Unearthed or by visiting: Outer Hebrides Unearthed.
