Expanding New Horizons

Welcoming New Members to the 3D-4CH Consortium 

We’re excited to share some recent updates from the 3D-4CH project that mark a new chapter in our journey to build a pan-European ecosystem for 3D digitisation in the cultural heritage sector. 

As we move into the next phase of the project, the consortium is growing stronger with the addition of new partners and the official inclusion of key institutions as full beneficiaries. These changes not only reflect the collaborative spirit at the heart of 3D-4CH but also broaden our collective expertise and outreach potential. 

ATHENA Joins as a Full Beneficiary 

We’re thrilled to welcome the ATHENA Research Centre as a full beneficiary of 3D-4CH. ATHENA has been closely involved in the project since the beginning through its affiliation with CARARE, and now steps into a more prominent role. 

“As the head of the Clepsydra – Cultural Heritage Digitisation Lab, I’m delighted to see ATHENA officially join as a full beneficiary. We’ve been committed to this initiative from day one, and it’s an honour to now contribute more directly to building a European ecosystem for 3D digitisation in cultural heritage.”
- Dr. Anestis Koutsoudis, ATHENA Research Centre 

With decades of experience in terrestrial and aerial 3D digitisation, interdisciplinary research, and public education, ATHENA will play a key role in shaping the Competence Centre’s training services and technical infrastructure. 

KMKG Steps Into a New Role 

We’re equally pleased to announce that the Royal Museums of Art and History (KMKG) in Brussels has also joined the project as a full beneficiary. KMKG brings deep expertise in collection management, curation, and public engagement—skills that are essential to ensuring 3D-4CH outcomes are grounded in real institutional needs and serve diverse audiences. 

We’re currently working with KMKG to plan a workshop at their institution in early 2026, which will be a great opportunity to showcase the Competence Centre and connect with the wider cultural heritage community. 

A Warm Welcome to Universidad de Jaén 

The newest member of the 3D-4CH consortium is the Universidad de Jaén. Their participation brings invaluable expertise in archaeology, education, and inclusive access to heritage. 

“3D-4CH offers a strategic opportunity to deepen our work in archaeological research and education. We’re particularly excited about creating immersive content that introduces students and professionals to digital tools for heritage interpretation-and about ensuring the Competence Centre develops a truly inclusive dimension.”
- Universidad de Jaén 

The university’s work on inclusive 3D activities, such as multi-sensory models for users with visual impairments, is an inspiring reminder of how digital heritage can and should be accessible to all. 

These consortium updates mark an important milestone in the evolution of the 3D-4CH project. With these new partners and expanded roles, we are better equipped than ever to build a robust and inclusive 3D Online Competence Centre that responds to the real needs of the cultural heritage sector. 

We look forward to sharing more news and partner highlights in the weeks ahead. For now, a warm welcome to ATHENA, KMKG, and Universidad de Jaén - your expertise and passion are vital to our shared mission.