Reflecting on 2024 with Heritage+ : A Year of Innovation, Collaboration, and Cultural Connection

21. 1. 2025 / Heritage As 2024 ended, Heritage+ is taking a moment to reflect on the journey the year brought. It’s been a year filled with creativity, innovation, and a deep commitment to bringing cultural heritage closer to people through digital technologies. From digital projects to hands-on workshops, pushing boundaries and connecting communities in meaningful ways was the goal. Here’s a closer look at the highlights that made 2024 unforgettable.

Springing into Action: The Launch of the 3D Heritage Portal

In spring 2024, the 3D Heritage portal was launched, a platform that consolidates 3D models of cultural artifacts in one accessible place. Initially focused on Slovenian heritage, the portal is designed to grow, eventually featuring treasures from across Europe and beyond.

This digital hub isn’t just about preserving history—it’s about transforming how people experience it. By offering detailed, interactive 3D models, the portal makes cultural heritage accessible to everyone, whether the person using it is a researcher, an educator, or just someone with a passion for history. This launch marked the beginning of a new era for Heritage+, and it will be exciting to see how the portal evolves in the coming years.

 

Hands-On Learning: A Summer Workshop in Idrija

As summer days arrived, Idrija, Slovenia hosted a 3D digitization workshop as part of the 5DCulture project. This immersive masterclass brought together participants from Slovenia and beyond to explore the latest techniques in digitizing cultural artifacts.

Over several days, attendees learned to use photogrammetry and laser scanning to create detailed 3D models of cultural objects. But it wasn’t just about technology—it was about reimagining how these models can be used. From digital storytelling to immersive exhibitions, the workshop emphasized the creative potential of 3D digitization. For more details, check out the full recap of the workshop here.

 

Innovation in Action: Reimagining Postcards

One of Heritage+ favorite experiments this year involved testing an innovative approach to reusing 3D models without requiring significant investments in hardware. In Idrija, postcards enhanced with mini-holograms were introduced, combining physical and digital storytelling to create a unique souvenir.

Visitors experienced seeing history come alive in their hands. This project, part of the 5DCulture project, demonstrated how simple, cost-effective solutions can redefine how people can engage with cultural heritage. You can read more about this exciting project here.

 

Supporting Public Organizations and Building European Data Spaces

In 2024, Heritage+ supported over 15 public organizations in planning the digitalization of cultural heritage through the DIGI-SI project. This initiative highlights the commitment to fostering innovation across the cultural sector.

Additionally, participation in numerous conferences and public events highlighted the year, including a high-level TwinIt! 3D conference at the European Commission in Brussels.

Furthermore, Heritage+ is actively contributing to the creation of European data spaces, integrating cultural heritage data into spaces dedicated to tourism (DEPLOYTOUR) and media (TEMS). These collaborations underline the vision of linking cultural heritage to broader societal and economic frameworks.

 

Empowering Cultural Tourism: The CulturalDeTour Accelerator Program

Throughout the year, small and emerging cultural tourism businesses were supported through the CulturalDeTour accelerator program. This six-month initiative provided mentorship and resources to help participants craft sustainable, tech-driven approaches to cultural tourism.

Using the Earth-Centered Design Methodology, participants explored innovative ways to blend cultural heritage with modern tourism practices. The program culminated in a pitching event where businesses presented their ideas to a jury. It was inspiring to see the passion and creativity on display. For a closer look at the program and its participants, visit CulturalDeTour's website.

 

A Digital Tribute to Zoran Mušič

In collaboration with the upcoming European Capital of Culture GO! 2025, Heritage+ worked on a project close to our hearts: a digital interpretation of painter Zoran Mušič’s artistic legacy.

This immersive installation, set to debut in February 2025 at Nova Gorica’s xCenter, uses digital technologies to celebrate the life and work of one of Slovenia’s most renowned artists.

 

Expanding The Digital Toolbox

2024 also saw the development of several new digital tools and solutions. From 3D visualizations of ancient Roman structures to online cultural guides, Heritage+ worked tirelessly to make cultural heritage more accessible and engaging. These tools are designed to bring history to life, helping audiences connect with the past in innovative ways.

 

Looking Ahead

Looking back on 2024, Heritage+ is incredibly proud of everything they've accomplished. From launching the 3D Heritage portal to supporting cultural tourism and creating immersive digital experiences, it’s been a year of growth, innovation, and meaningful connections.

Here’s to continuing their mission of preserving and reimagining cultural heritage in 2025 and beyond.