Inspiring the Next Generation of Digital Heritage Innovators  

On 26th September 2025, the 3D-4CH consortium proudly took part in the European Researchers’ Night, an annual celebration that brings science and innovation closer to the public across Europe. This year, consortium partners from IUIAI-UJA and 3D Research (University of Calabria) showcased how digital technologies can make cultural heritage more inclusive, engaging, and accessible to everyone — from children and students to researchers and the visually impaired.

A Sensory and Inclusive Journey to Iberian Art

In Jaén, the IUIAI-UJA and 3D-4CH teams co-organised an interactive workshop titled “A Sensory and Inclusive Journey to Iberian Art.” Designed for children aged 6 to 10, as well as participants with visual impairments, the workshop offered a truly multisensory exploration of Iberian culture through 3D technology.

The experience unfolded in different stages, each stimulating the senses and imagination of participants:

• Tactile and Auditory Exploration: Children and visually impaired visitors explored 3D-printed scale models of iconic Iberian artefacts entirely through touch and sound. Without directly seeing the objects, they listened to descriptive narrations through headphones and were encouraged to sketch their interpretations; a powerful exercise in perception, creativity, and empathy.

• Virtual Exploration: Using virtual and augmented reality headsets, participants entered immersive environments to engage with the same 3D models they had previously experienced through touch and hearing. The result was a captivating sensory journey that blended tradition and innovation, art and technology.
  
  

Through playful gamification, participants were guided to uncover stories, symbols, and textures of Iberian heritage, transforming learning into an engaging adventure. The workshop beautifully demonstrated how 3D digitisation and inclusive design can make cultural experiences accessible to all.

3D-4CH in Action at the University of Calabria

Meanwhile, in Italy, 3D-4CH partner 3D Research participated in the European Researchers’ Night at the University of Calabria, offering hands-on sessions that connected digital cultural heritage with the curiosity and aspirations of younger generations.

Visitors of all ages - from high school students to families - explored the Innovation Space booth, where 3D Research experts introduced them to the world of 3D digitisation, photogrammetry, and structured light scanning. Live demonstrations allowed participants to see how real artefacts can be transformed into precise digital replicas for research, education, and conservation.

Beyond technology, the team also opened conversations about career paths in digital heritage, the creative reuse of 3D data, and how standardised, interoperable models can contribute to virtual museums, educational platforms, and immersive storytelling experiences. For many students, it was an eye-opening moment realising that the future of heritage is not just about preservation, but also about innovation, accessibility, and participation.

Empowering the Future of Digital Heritage

The European Researchers’ Night offered a glimpse into what 3D-4CH stands for: collaboration, inclusion, and innovation. Whether through a tactile journey into Iberian art or hands-on experimentation with 3D scanning technologies, the project continues to show how heritage and technology can co-exist, co-evolve, and co-create the future.

Moments like these reaffirm the mission of 3D-4CH to make digital cultural heritage open, inclusive, and meaningful for all generations.