The DGTRAN project, led by the Volyn Foundation and supported by the Creative Europe Programme, is redefining how we preserve cultural heritage. Our ambitious initiative leverages cutting-edge 3D and AR technologies to honor the legacy of Vytautas the Great.
Vytautas the Great was a unifying figure, celebrated in all three countries for his proto-European vision of governance. His influence spanned Lithuania, where he reigned, Ukraine, where he built strategic fortresses, and Poland, where his legacy is deeply intertwined with shared cultural history.
Digitizing Historic Treasures
DGTRAN’s core achievement is the digital preservation of 11 iconic sites tied to Vytautas. From Ukraine’s Lutsk Castle, which served as the Grand Duchy’s second capital, to Lithuania’s Trakai Peninsula Castle, Vytautas’ residence, and Poland’s Drohiczyn Castle on the banks of the Bug River, these structures have been transformed into detailed 3D models. Each model captures the architectural beauty and historical significance of these sites, ensuring their stories endure for future generations.
Launching a Digital Platform
To connect these digitized landmarks, the project launched vytautasbelt.eu, an engaging platform that offers users access to 3D models, historical narratives, and virtual tours. The website invites audiences to explore Vytautas’ world from anywhere, fostering a greater appreciation for cultural heritage across borders.
Empowering Local Experts
The Volyn Foundation has taken steps to ensure the sustainability of digitization efforts by translating essential documents, such as The London Charter and Basic Principles for 3D Digitisation of Tangible Cultural Heritage, into Ukrainian. These resources provide invaluable guidance to local cultural heritage professionals, enabling them to adopt international best practices in digital preservation.
Advocacy and International Dialogue
Beyond digitization, DGTRAN is shaping global conversations about cultural preservation. The Volyn Foundation has participated in key conferences like EuropeanaTech 2023 and the “Digital Technologies in Cultural Heritage” forum in Lublin. Presentations highlighted the project’s success and drew attention to the urgent need for digitization, especially in war zones like Ukraine.
A Global Collaboration
The project’s success is rooted in international cooperation. The Volyn Foundation (Ukraine), the University of Bialystok (Poland), the Educational Research and Innovation Institute (Lithuania), and the Institute of Entrepreneurship Development (Greece) have worked together to combine historical expertise, technical innovation, and cultural advocacy.
By preserving Vytautas’ legacy and the sites associated with him, DGTRAN demonstrates how digital innovation can protect cultural heritage while fostering unity and understanding across borders. This is more than a project — it’s a testament to resilience, collaboration, and the enduring power of shared European history.
