Design and Implementation of a Web GIS Application for Heritage Documentation Using Drones, Lidar, and Laser Scanning: The Case of Lubonja, Korçë, Albania

Elva Leka; Edmond Hoxha; Erland Alla; Jeton Pekmezi; Emiliano Qose

doi:10.3991/ijim.v19i13.54599

Authors

Elva Leka Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania https://orcid.org/0009-0000-9883-908X
Edmond Hoxha Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4049-0705
Erland Alla Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania https://orcid.org/0009-0008-5121-7564
Jeton Pekmezi Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania; AlbMatrix, Tirana, Albania
Emiliano Qose AlbMatrix, Tirana, Albania

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3991/ijim.v19i13.54599

Keywords:

Web GIS, Cultural Heritage, Geospatial Analysis, Drones, Laser Scanning, Data Visualization, Lubonja

Abstract

Cultural legacy is an integral part of a country’s identity and its historical and social development. This heritage must be preserved and protected through modern documentation, monitoring, and management technologies. In this context, information and communication technologies (ICT), specifically geographic information systems (GIS), have emerged as transformative tools. Recently, Web GIS applications have expanded opportunities for collaboration and real-time information sharing by offering accessible and interactive platforms for geospatial data integration. Web GIS empowers heritage experts to create precise maps, 3D models, and real-time heritage experts by allowing them to create precise maps, 3D models, and real-time representations of cultural assets. Despite its potential, a significant challenge lies in effectively disseminating information to attract tourists and promote heritage sites. This study explores the application of Web GIS in addressing these challenges in Lubonja, a prehistoric village in Korçë, Albania. It discusses the benefits and limitations of this technology in preserving and promoting cultural heritage and how advanced geospatial technologies can enhance accessibility, public participation, and heritage management.

Author Biographies

Elva Leka, Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania

Dr. Elva Leka is Lecturer at Polytechnic University of Tirana, Department of Applied Geology and Informatics in Tirana, Albania, since 2014. Her doctoral studies at South East European University in North Macedonia (2021) focus on blockchain implementation using smart contracts to manage intellectual properties. She graduated with a Master of Science and bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Tirana. Being always enthusiastic about secure technologies, technology ambitious, and intellectually curious, her research interest is focused on Blockchain, security, web development, Artificial Intelligence, and women in ICT. (Email: elva.leka@fgjm.edu.al)

Edmond Hoxha, Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania

Prof. Asoc. Dr. Edmond Hoxha is a full professor at Polytechnic University of Tirana (PUT), Faculty of Geology and Mine. He received the PhD degree on “Geosciences and Environment” on PUT. He studied also on leadership on Harvard University, USA. He has huge experience working with Government of Albania and International institutions like World Bank, European Union etc. During 2009-2013, he was Deputy Minister of European Integration of Albania. He is founder of Albanian Centre of Excellence, National Mining Surveyors association, and publisher of Scientific Journal “Albanian Excellence”. He is member of Eurosciences; International Association of Sciences, Technology and Development; World Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Technology; International Society for Mines Surveying. His research interests are focused on GIS, Mine modelling, Environmental protection, Cultural and Natural heritage and Project Management. (Email: edmond.hoxha@fgjm.edu.al)

Erland Alla, Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania

MSc. Erland Alla is Geoinformatics Engineer with experience in geospatial analysis, satellite data processing, and the implementation of GIS technologies in national and international projects. Focused on developing advanced geospatial products to support data-driven decision-making and interdisciplinary collaboration. (Email: erland.alla@asig.gov.al)

Jeton Pekmezi, Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania; AlbMatrix, Tirana, Albania

Dr. Jeton Pekmezi is a Lecturer at Polytechnic University of Tirana (PUT), since 2008. He received the PhD degree in 3D Mining Modeling and Resources Estimation in Tirana on 2016 at the PUT, Faculty of Geology and Mining. His research interest is focused on 3D Mining Modeling, Mining Subsidence Engineering, 3D Surface Modeling etc. (Email: jeton.pekmezi@fgjm.edu.al)

Emiliano Qose, AlbMatrix, Tirana, Albania

MSc. Emiliano Qose received a Master degree on Geomatics on 2017, on Polytechnic University of Tirana, Faculty of Geology and Mine, Department of Mining Resource engineering. He has a wide experience on surveying especially in advanced technology as Remote Sensing, Drone, Lidar and Laser Scanner. From 2019 and actually he is General Manager of ALB-Matrix Group with focus on Terrestrial and Aerial Surveying Solution. From 2018 to actually he is working also as external lecturer in Metropolitan University of Tirana, teaching on Land Surveying and GIS Program. His scientific interests are DeepTech development and applications. (Email: emiliano@albmatrix.com)