Vintage Car: A Theoretical Reflection on the Development of a Virtual Reality Prototype for Historical and Cultural Recovery in the City of Belém

Abstract

This article presents a reflection on the development of a virtual reality (VR) prototype that recreates part of the city of Belém as it was in the 1950s, aiming to promote education and the preservation of local cultural heritage. Motivated by urban transformations that threaten historical memory, the project employs user-centered design, 3D modeling, and usability testing to create an immersive and educational experience.The methodology includes a systematic literature review, exploratory, bibliographic, and field research, as well as a case study to ensure both historical accuracy and prototype functionality. The study proposes that VR can enhance engagement and learning about cultural heritage by offering an intuitive and accessible interface validated by real users. References to historical games and simulations reinforce the project’s theoretical and methodological foundation, which aims to serve as a replicable model for similar cultural recovery initiatives through immersive technology.