Main Goal
The project, developed as an educational application, aims to provide an accessible and engaging way of exploring one of the largest early medieval strongholds in Europe. Its purpose is not only to serve as a comprehensive source of knowledge about the site and its historical context, but also to support visitors in navigating the area through an integrated map and GPS system.
At the same time, the application enhances the experience by allowing users to view selected archaeological finds in the form of reconstructed 3D models, displayed in situ using augmented reality (AR) technology. Through this combination of education, navigation, and immersive visualization, the project bridges the gap between past and present, making cultural heritage more tangible and understandable for a wide audience.
Immersive 360° VR Experiences
As part of the application, three panoramic 360° VR films were produced to deepen user engagement and provide a more immersive understanding of early medieval life. One live-action film presents a Slavic funerary ritual, depicting the practice of cremation, while two fully animated 3D experiences portray a dramatic raid on the stronghold—one from the perspective of its defenders, and the other from the viewpoint of inhabitants of the nearby settlement.
Together, these immersive narratives offer complementary perspectives on historical events, allowing users not only to learn about the past, but to experience it in a vivid and emotionally engaging way.
AR Reconstructions of Architectural Heritage
One of the key objectives of the application was to present the most significant immovable heritage elements through augmented reality (AR). As a result, a series of detailed 3D reconstructions were created, including structures such as huts, defensive ramparts, and wells.
These models can be viewed in their original locations across the stronghold, allowing users to experience the reconstructed architecture within its natural landscape. By situating digital reconstructions directly in the physical environment, the application provides a clearer understanding of the site’s original form and spatial organization.
Knowledge Base and Ongoing Research
Alongside the development of the application, an extensive knowledge base dedicated to the stronghold and its surrounding settlement was created. At the time of release, the app features over 250 multimedia materials, including archival photographs, films, map scans, 3D reconstructions, AR models, and more—marking only the beginning of its potential.
Research on the stronghold and its vicinity is still ongoing, under the supervision of Dr. Łukasz Miechowicz. As new findings are published, their content can be continuously integrated into the application, ensuring that it remains a living, evolving source of knowledge.
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