We developed an innovative mobile application based on augmented reality (AR) technology for the Museum of the City of Ilok, as an integral part of the exhibition “Stolen Heritage.” The exhibition focuses on valuable museum artifacts that were stolen from Croatian territory during the Homeland War and are now outside the reach of national collections. This project aims to connect modern technology with the complex and emotional story of cultural heritage losses, offering visitors a unique experience and a deeper understanding of the historical context.
How the application works and user interaction
The application uses the mobile device’s camera to scan special marked points within the museum exhibition space. By activating these points, photographs of the stolen items appear in augmented reality, virtually placed exactly where the original artifacts used to be displayed. This technology allows users to literally “return” the lost artifacts to the space, experiencing their presence and significance despite their physical absence. This approach not only visually revitalizes history but also intensifies the emotional connection with the exhibits.
Application design and the importance of intuitiveness
Special emphasis was placed on accessibility and ease of use, ensuring the application is understandable for a wide range of users, including those with less technical experience. The intuitive user interface allows for easy scanning, quick content loading, and high-quality visual experience. Precise spatial positioning of photographs creates a realistic display that enhances the feeling of authenticity and presence of the lost items, giving users a sense of participating in the return of cultural heritage to the museum.
The role of augmented reality in museum interpretation
The use of augmented reality in museum interpretation represents an important shift in how historical and cultural content is presented to the public. In this context, AR is not just a technological addition but a powerful educational tool raising awareness about critical issues such as war losses and the displacement of cultural goods. By enabling a virtual return of lost objects, the application fosters respect and understanding for national heritage and helps preserve memory of traumatic events.
Contribution to the museum project and broader social impact
This mobile application offers a modern form of museum communication that enriches visitor experience and provides a new way to interact with historical content. Beyond providing access to information no longer physically available, it highlights the significance of returning cultural values and emphasizes the importance of protecting and preserving heritage. Through this project, the Museum of the City of Ilok actively participates in raising awareness about historical events and encourages dialogue about national identity and cultural memory.
Opportunities for future development and technology application
Given the success and potential of this AR project, there is substantial room for expanding the application’s functionality by integrating additional content. For example, audio-visual materials, detailed historical information, or interactive quizzes could further enhance the educational aspect. As augmented reality technology continues to evolve, it opens possibilities for even more impressive and engaging museum presentations tailored to diverse audiences.
Importance of digital innovation in preserving cultural heritage
The Museum of the City of Ilok’s project demonstrates how digital innovations can play a crucial role in preserving and presenting cultural heritage. Through advanced technologies like AR, museums gain a new dimension of communication with a more demanding and technologically savvy audience. Such projects not only increase accessibility and understanding of historical content but also actively contribute to the sustainability and relevance of cultural institutions in contemporary society.