This paper presents the results of an experimental-demonstrative research project summarizing three integrated products: an interactive digital map; a reference and record keeping database system; and a set of procedures to enforce the unified application of archaeological heritage protection legislation in Romania. The web-based application constitutes a permanent working tool available to the Romanian Ministry of Culture territorial branch offices, and is freely accessible to specialists and other entities involved in the protection of archaeological heritage, and even to private investors interested in development on land areas having archaeological heritage. The application brings together the organization, systematization, and digitization of all available information about archaeological sites at the national level. This information is otherwise difficult to access because it is structured differently in terms of quantity and quality of data, and stored using different media and formats in several types of non-interconnected institutions. The ArchTerr application significantly reduces the time required to inform, verify, and communicate a decision regarding the presence or absence of archaeological heritage on a particular site. The application ensures the dynamic and automatic real-time bidirectional conversion of geospatial information (Stereo70 and WGS84), and access to unitary and level-structured information, and provides interoperability with other information systems. High-resolution maps allow the non-professional user/investor to access detailed geospatial information about a delimited area, in a timely manner and without the need for field travel, which is a unique feature not found in other European record systems concerning archeological sites. The functionalities of the application developed within the research project, the technical decisions taken, and their implementation method are generally valid. They can be applied in any geographical region because the open source maps used by the technical team cover the world map and the coordinate system used for representation is international. The testing and validation of these functionalities were undertaken using real archaeological data from Romania (data already included in the national heritage representing archaeological sites).

Smart cities rely on digital infrastructures and utilize data-driven frameworks to enhance quality of life, optimizing public services by promoting transparency in urban and heritage management. Based on the ArchTerr project for archeological heritage protection, this study introduces an integrated framework uniting two components: GIS-based land mapping and blockchain-enabled document management. The system supports urban planning, land administration, and governance by combining spatial intelligence with secure data handling. The GIS module enables precise land mapping using geographic coordinates, facilitating spatial analysis, land use monitoring, and infrastructure planning. The document management system employs blockchain storage functionalities to ensure the immutability, transparency, and traceability of records such as land ownership documents, permits, and regulatory filings. Developed using the Design Science Research methodology, the framework translates abstract principles of data immutability and interoperability into a functional architecture that addresses persistent issues of fragmented datasets, insecure records, and limited institutional accountability and improves scalability, efficiency, and transparency in a variety of urban situations. We explored its implications for policy and governance, illustrating how interdisciplinary technology serves as a basis for transparent, accountable, and resilient urban management. This study advances theoretical understanding of how the convergence of spatial and trust-based technologies can foster geo-trusted governance and contribute to more transparent and resilient heritage management.