Digital Archaeology at the Kamenica Mound/ Innovative project presented

2025-10-01 12:38:00, Aktualitet CNA

At the museum center “Tuma e Kamenica”, one of the most important archaeological sites in the southeast of the country, an innovative project has been presented that brings a new spirit to the way cultural heritage is conveyed, digital archaeology. The activity was held within the framework of the European Cultural Heritage Days and aims to offer a modern experience for visitors and tourists who choose to get to know history through technology. Archaeologist Florenc Cenolli emphasizes that the digitization of sites is not simply a luxury, but a necessity in the time we live in, both for tourism and for cultural heritage.

Digital Archaeology at the Kamenica Mound/ Innovative project presented

"In the framework of the "European Cultural Heritage Days", the museum center "Tuma e Kamenica" has prepared this specific presentation under the slogan digital archaeology. This is because the demand for needs in the time we live in is definitely necessary both for tourism in general and for cultural heritage. All archaeological sites should be given a boost towards digitalization to make a virtual presentation for the tourist. We must offer the tourist the best, not only in terms of cuisine but also in terms of cultural heritage, as well as culture, tradition, customs. The archaeological potential in the Korça region is abundant."

Digital Archaeology at the Kamenica Mound/ Innovative project presented

The digitization process is carried out through GIS technology and the use of drones and ground cameras, which provide an accurate picture of the terrain and archaeological objects. This data is then processed on a computer, creating three-dimensional models, orthophotos and virtual visualizations that serve as a basis for tourist promotion, but also for the administration and protection of the sites. GIS specialist, Elson Salihaj, shows that this initiative initially started as a personal effort, but has now become a project of international value.

" This product is very important as an international format. We started this work as a personal initiative by doing several sites in Albania such as the Apollonia Park, Bylis and when we came to the Kamenica Mound, the idea was born to do all the sites in the region. We try to capture the image of the terrain through images of ground cameras and drones and obtain the real model of the object, which is part of the scan. This material is then processed on computers and we obtain a product that includes several elements, such as orthophotos, which are digital images of the terrain. First of all, it is important for institutions, whether they are those that administer and manage these sites, municipalities that can see the real situation or illegal interventions. In terms of tourism, it is important because it is offered with a high standard, a different model in terms of virtual tours. These can also be done with a minimal fee, since tourists cannot physically come to visit."

Digital Archaeology at the Kamenica Mound/ Innovative project presented

This project not only helps in preserving cultural heritage, but also creates a new opportunity for the promotion of cultural tourism in Korça and throughout Albania. At a time when technology has made physical borders no longer an obstacle, virtual tourism offers a new model for experiencing history and culture from every corner of the world. In this way, the Kamenica Mound, one of the most precious archaeological treasures of the region, is adding a new modern dimension to itself, making the heritage more accessible, better preserved and more attractive for visitors of current and future generations./ CNA