Isla Plana Virtual Tour
The last days of a vanishing Island
“Isla Plana“ Cartagena (Spain)
Set against the rugged backdrop of the rocky isle of Isla Plana, off the coast of Mazarrón in the Murcia region, our expedition was nothing short of extraordinary. This isolated speck of land, once a settlement during the Roman Empire, now stands as a silent testament to centuries of history, but its future is uncertain. With rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and the relentless forces of climate change threatening its existence, Isla Plana may soon vanish beneath the Mediterranean waves.
Determined to capture its beauty before it’s lost to time, we embarked on a thrilling adventure to document the island’s unique geometry. Armed with drones, photogrammetry technology, underwater 360 cameras, and trusty DSLR gear, we sought to preserve both the dry, windswept surface and the thriving marine life beneath the waves.
3D visualization
At Arquiavis, we're on a mission to freeze time and digitally preserve the world's most remarkable natural formations—like this island—using cutting-edge 3D photogrammetry. As climate change, erosion, and human impact threaten these ecosystems, our technology ensures their legacy endures. Through immersive 3D visualization, we capture every detail, allowing future generations to experience these wonders, even if they are lost to time. This groundbreaking approach can be applied to endangered islands and any vulnerable landscapes, safeguarding their beauty and significance for posterity.
Island context capture process
Reaching the island was an adventure in itself. We navigated the rugged coastline by air, land, and sea, even paddling our way to the shore by kayak to gain access to the hidden wonders of this dry rock. Hours of intense exploration and documentation ensued, until every corner of Isla Plana was captured in stunning detail.
Back at my desk, the true magic began—processing the imagery to create a 3D photogrammetry model and assembling a virtual tour that now allows you to experience the island in its entirety.
This project would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my wife, Dirce, whose boundless adventurous spirit and endless patience make her the ultimate expedition partner. I also owe a debt of gratitude to my parents, who captured stunning behind-the-scenes shots while lending a hand in the field, contributing to the making of this virtual experience.
Isla Plana’s time may be running out, but thanks to modern technology and a shared passion for adventure, its story will live on in the virtual realm for generations to come.
