Exploring New Frontiers of Architecture at Expo 2025 Osaka
From May 1 to 5, 2025, thousands of visitors to Expo 2025 Osaka had the opportunity to experience Rossio through an authentic archiviz journey. At the entrance of the Portugal Pavilion, visitors were invited to pick up a game controller and explore a detailed replica of Lisbon’s iconic Rossio Square.
By controlling an avatar, guests could virtually roam every corner of the square and discover its historical and cultural highlights.
A trip to Lisbon
For many Japanese visitors, it was their first “trip” to Lisbon, crossing oceans in just minutes thanks to the interactivity of the metaverse. For others, the familiar architecture of Rossio evoked memories and sparked comparisons between the physical space and this innovative digital heritage.
The experience showcased the potential of real-time rendering and interactive experiences as a possibility not only for promoting culture and tourism but also for the future of archviz.
By integrating virtual reality, digital art, and the power of Unreal Engine, Portugal made a creative and innovative mark at Expo 2025 Osaka, proving that the digital realm can also be used to create bridges between different countries and cultures.