An unusual partnership between Microsoft and Greece’s Ministry of Culture and Sport launched an immersive tour at one of the world’s major archaeological sites. The programme at ancient Olympia harnesses augmented reality technology that designers say has the potential to transform education, business and entertainment. Critics warn it will extend the invasive power of US tech giants.

The culture ministry helped Microsoft map and build virtual representations at Olympia, a site used for nearly a thousand years to host the games in ancient Greece that served as the inspiration for the modern Olympics. “It’s a milestone… that helped us bring technology and culture and history together so we can preserve it,” Microsoft President Brad Smith said in a video message.