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The EU-funded project StecakLand is taking a significant step forward in preserving cultural heritage. This initiative aims to digitize medieval stećak tombstones, giving these ancient relics a new lease on life. At the center of this project is the Archaeological Museum of Dubrovnik, collaborating with a team of experts to revolutionize our relationship with history.
A key component of this project is the use of virtual reality (VR) technology. With VR, users can fully immerse themselves in meticulously recreated environments that highlight the beauty and complexity of these historical artifacts. It becomes possible to walk among tombstones, decipher inscriptions, and examine intricate carvings without leaving modern-day Dubrovnik.
In this article, we will explore how VR enables the recreation of stećak tombstones in Dubrovnik. We will discuss the innovative techniques used, the collaborative efforts driving the project, and the cultural significance behind these stone monuments. Join us on this journey where ancient history meets cutting-edge technology.
The StecakLand initiative is a significant endeavor designed to bridge the gap between ancient history and modern technology. This project aims to leverage virtual reality (VR) to create immersive experiences that allow users to step back in time. Through VR, visitors can witness the intricate details and artistic beauty of medieval tombstones, called stećaks, as if they were standing before them centuries ago.
StecakLand focuses on bringing these historical artifacts closer to the public by creating detailed 3D models of stećaks using advanced photogrammetry techniques. These digital reconstructions offer a new perspective on the craftsmanship and cultural significance of these stone monuments. By offering an interactive and educational experience, the project hopes to ignite a passion for cultural heritage preservation among younger generations.
Funded by the Creative Europe Programme under the auspices of the European Commission, StecakLand represents a significant investment in preserving European cultural heritage. The EU’s support underscores its commitment to not only safeguarding historical artifacts but also making them accessible through innovative technologies. This backing provides essential resources for research, development, and public engagement activities integral to the project’s success.
Running from November 1, 2023, to October 31, 2025, StecakLand has a clear roadmap:
The project’s structured approach ensures each phase builds upon previous efforts, culminating in a rich, educational experience for all who engage with it.
The StecakLand project thrives on the collaboration of some of the most esteemed institutions in the fields of archaeology, digital arts, and cultural heritage. Each partner brings a unique set of skills and expertise, driving the initiative towards its ambitious goals.
Leading the charge in developing cutting-edge AR applications, DIGI.BA is at the forefront of integrating digital technologies with historical preservation. Their advanced software tools enable users to interact with virtual reconstructions of stećak tombstones, enriching the educational experience.
Specializing in the historical significance of stećak tombstones, researchers from this institute provide invaluable insights that inform accurate digital recreations. Their expertise ensures that every detail, from inscriptions to motifs, is authentically preserved and interpreted.
Named after the renowned Bosnian poet whose work often explored medieval tombstones, this foundation plays a crucial role in contextualizing stećaks within Bosnian culture. They offer historical narratives that make these stone monuments resonate deeply with contemporary audiences.
This institution contributes extensive research and archival resources, helping to enrich the visual and historical data used in StecakLand’s VR experiences. Their involvement guarantees that Montenegrin stećaks are represented with accuracy and respect.
Each partner’s contribution is pivotal to StecakLand’s mission. By combining their specialized knowledge and innovative approaches, they collectively recreate and preserve these historic artifacts for future generations.
Virtual reality is shaking up archaeological practices. By using VR technology, researchers can create accurate 3D models of artifacts like stećaks using advanced techniques such as photogrammetry. This method captures detailed images from multiple angles, which are then stitched together to form a precise three-dimensional representation.
Digitalization and 3D photogrammetric recording open new avenues for archaeological research. Stećak tombstones, rich with historical significance and artistic craftsmanship, become more than static relics. They transform into dynamic subjects for study and education.
Photogrammetry allows for unprecedented precision. The process involves taking numerous photographs of an artifact from various angles. Sophisticated software then compiles these images into a cohesive 3D model. This model retains the minute details of the original, down to the smallest chisel mark.
Virtual reality doesn’t just replicate; it revitalizes. Artifacts like stećaks gain new dimensions—literally and figuratively. They become tools for learning and discovery, bridging gaps between past and present, scholar and student, museum and visitor.
VR technology is not just about seeing; it’s about experiencing. Through immersive simulations, users step into history. They interact with ancient artifacts in ways previously unimaginable, uncovering stories etched in stone centuries ago.
AR applications are changing the way we explore cultural heritage. Picture this: you’re in a museum, and instead of just looking at artifacts, you can interact with them through interactive exhibits that make medieval heritage come alive. Stećak collections, which used to be displayed in a fixed manner, now come alive with dynamic interaction.
AR turns passive observation into an immersive journey through time.
Stećak tombstones carry more than just the weight of stone; they bear the imprints of medieval heritage. These monolithic markers stand testament to a time when artistry intertwined with cultural expression. Beyond their intricate carvings, stećaks tell stories etched in stone.
Many stećaks feature inscriptions that offer a rare look into the values and beliefs of medieval Bosnian society. These inscriptions often include epitaphs, poetic verses, or religious symbols that reflect the spiritual and social fabric of the era.
Written in an archaic form of Bosnian Cyrillic, these texts provide valuable insights for linguists and historians alike. They help decode linguistic evolution and regional variations in script.
The motifs carved into these stones are rich with symbolism. Common designs include geometric patterns, human figures, hunting scenes, and mythical creatures. Each element holds specific meanings—some represent protection, others signify eternal life or valor.
The artistry on stećaks embodies a blend of influences from different cultures, including Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic styles. This fusion showcases the diverse cultural interactions that shaped medieval Bosnia.
Some stećaks depict rituals associated with death and the afterlife. Scenes showing feasts, dances, or processions provide snapshots of how communities commemorated their deceased.
Religious symbols like crosses, crescent moons, and stars found on these tombstones reveal the syncretic nature of medieval Bosnian spirituality. They reflect a coexistence of Christian and pagan beliefs.
Stećak tombstones are more than relics—they are storytellers bridging past and present.
StecakLand aims to ignite curiosity about medieval history and archaeology. Its educational initiatives are designed to engage local communities and schools, offering hands-on experiences that blend historical context with cutting-edge technology.
Workshops form a core part of this outreach. Students not only learn about the stećak tombstones’ historical significance but also dive into practical applications. Using VR tools for archaeological documentation, they experience the meticulous process of digital preservation firsthand.
Key educational resources include:
The project also emphasizes learning about EU-funded projects, showcasing how collaboration across borders can lead to advancements in heritage preservation. By integrating technology with education, StecakLand ensures that future generations gain a comprehensive understanding of both historical artifacts and the innovative methods used to preserve them.
Bojan Mijatović leads the technical aspects of StecakLand. With extensive experience in digital arts and computer science, Bojan has a deep understanding of VR applications. He is passionate about using technology to preserve and promote cultural heritage, and his goal is to create immersive experiences that resonate with people from different backgrounds.
Selma Rizvić is in charge of the digital reconstruction efforts. As a prominent figure in the field of digital humanities, Selma has played a key role in turning ancient artifacts into interactive experiences. She believes strongly in using technology to make history accessible and engaging for everyone, and her work reflects this commitment.
Dr. Domagoj Perkić is an archaeologist at the Archaeological Museum of Dubrovnik. His expertise lies in studying the historical importance of stećak tombstones. Dr. Perkić’s thorough research ensures that every digital recreation stays true to history while also providing new perspectives on medieval Bosnian society.
These visionaries, each with their unique skill sets, are united by a common goal: to preserve and celebrate cultural heritage through technology. Together, they push boundaries, combining academic rigor with innovative solutions to bring history to life for future generations.
The future of cultural heritage projects lies in the innovative use of technology. StecakLand exemplifies this by merging VR with archaeology.
Key Benefits:
Balancing technological advancements with authenticity ensures these digital reconstructions remain true to their origins. The role of technology in archaeology isn’t just about visualization; it’s about making history accessible and engaging for future generations.
Embrace these cutting-edge methods. They not only preserve our past but also inspire new explorations into our shared heritage.
