Xi'an City Wall showcases digital innovation in cultural heritage preservation

The Xi'an City Wall — one of China's best-preserved and most iconic ancient fortifications — is demonstrating how digital technologies are transforming the preservation and presentation of cultural heritage in Xi'an, capital of Northwest China's Shaanxi province.

A digital management platform integrates data collected through technologies including ground-penetrating radar, three-dimensional laser scanning, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things and digital twins. More than 1,300 smart sensing devices and thousands of monitoring points track indicators such as structural deformation, cracks, settlement and moisture levels.

Backed by more than 24 terabytes of high-precision data, the platform has built a comprehensive database covering the city wall itself, major heritage structures, gates and access routes. Supported by AI-powered analysis and a four-tier early-warning system, it enables real-time risk monitoring, intelligent assessment and preventive conservation, shifting heritage protection from reactive repairs to proactive preservation.

Xi'an City Wall has also established a full-chain digital management system covering data collection, governance, intellectual property registration and application. To date, it has secured 72 data intellectual property certificates, providing legal protection for digital heritage assets while supporting wider applications in conservation, cultural innovation and international exchanges.

Through applications including artificial intelligence, digital restoration and immersive experiences, technologies are helping preserve the wall's historical legacy while making it more accessible and engaging for today's audiences.

As digital innovation continues to transform the cultural sector, the integration of technology and heritage will be among the key topics discussed at the 2026 World Internet Conference Digital Silk Road Development Forum, which will held in Xi'an on July 21-22.

Participants around the world will explore how emerging technologies can support preservation and transmission of cultural heritage, promote mutual learning among civilizations and create new opportunities for cooperation in the digital era.

The Xi'an City Wall showcases how digital technologies are supporting cultural heritage preservation while enriching visitor experiences. [Photo/wicinternet.org]