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The integration of extended reality (XR) has fundamentally transformed historical site preservation and visualization. This systematic review examines the rapid evolution of these technologies between 2015 and 2025. Following a PRISMA-guided selection process, 115 high-fidelity empirical studies were rigorously analyzed from an initial pool of 798 records. The research is structured around four core areas: immersive platforms, data capture methodologies, software pipelines, and geographic preservation challenges. Key findings reveal a major methodological paradigm shift: while historical workflows relied heavily on single-method photogrammetry (e.g., Agisoft-to-Blender-to-Unity), modern preservation relies on hybrid workflows that merge terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) for structural accuracy with photogrammetry for textural fidelity. Furthermore, modern software pipelines increasingly favor RealityCapture and Unreal Engine 5, utilizing virtualized micro-polygon geometry and progressive rendering to eliminate traditional mesh decimation bottlenecks. While VR headsets remain dominant for providing true architectural scale, the integration of consumer-grade LiDAR is actively driving the rise of accessible mobile AR. Geographically, 73% of digitized projects remain concentrated in Europe, highlighting a critical need for global inclusivity. By defining the functional necessities of hybrid capture and advanced XR pipelines, this review provides a strategic framework for crowdsourcing and optimizing digital twins, ensuring historical accuracy and democratizing global access to cultural heritage.
Düzenli et al. (Sat,) studied this question.