AI for Heritage Preservation in Petra
Swiss partners
- HSLU : Simone Lionetti (main applicant)
MENA partners
- Hashemite University: Bayan El Faouri (main applicant)
Other partners
- Swiss Applied Mathematical Society : Gang Mu
Presentation of the project
The “AI for Heritage Preservation in Petra” initiative establishes a forward-looking Swiss–Jordan partnership aimed at developing a shared cultural and ethical framework for the responsible use of artificial intelligence in heritage preservation. Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of outstanding historical and cultural value, is increasingly affected by erosion, climate change, and human impact. At the same time, AI-based tools in documentation, modelling, and risk assessment present new opportunities for sustainable preservation, provided they are applied in ways that respect local knowledge, cultural values, and community traditions.
Building on the historic link created by Johann Ludwig Burckhardt’s rediscovery of Petra in 1812, the initiative frames contemporary Swiss–Jordan cooperation as a renewed “journey of rediscovery” grounded in interdisciplinary dialogue. It brings together expertise from cultural heritage and AI to encourage mutual understanding across fields and national contexts.
The central outcome will be the AI for Heritage Preservation in Petra White Paper, an interdisciplinary communication document synthesizing cultural perspectives and ethical considerations. It will serve as a conceptual foundation for future bilateral initiatives, including education, long-term collaboration, and AI-supported preservation associated with Petra and beyond.