Solutions from Ukraine: Lviv experts create precise 3D model of Kamianets-Podilsky fortress, preserving it for the future

Lviv experts have developed a comprehensive 3D model of the Kamianets-Podilsky fortress, one of Ukraine's seven wonders. This remarkable Ukrainian landmark, known for its rich history and architecture, is now digitally preserved and can be accurately restored in the event of damage. The project was carried out at the request of the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine.

Rubryka writes about it.

Skeiron, a studio based in Lviv, has recently completed a project involving the laser scanning and digitizing of the Kamianets-Podilsky fortress. The final model has been shared with the public on the Sketchfab platform, allowing anyone to explore it.

A team of experts spent four months creating an accurate digital fortress replica. Their project used drone technology to combine laser 3D scanning and photogrammetry.

A comprehensive assessment involved scanning approximately 1,000 stations and capturing 3,000 two-dimensional images. Augmenting these two modalities enabled the creation of a precise and detailed 3D representation of the landscape and stronghold, featuring accurate geometry and high texture quality.

The monument's digitization has permanently documented it in digital form, enabling accurate restoration of the structure in the event of damage or destruction caused by the effects of time or armed aggression by Russia on Ukrainian soil.

Additionally, the digital model aims to promote the history and research of essential buildings to Ukrainians, no matter their location. The ALIPH Foundation, part of the International Alliance for the Protection of Cultural Heritage in Areas of Conflict, funded the initiative to digitize the fortress.

The fortress was probably constructed in the 12th century within the territory of the former Galicia-Volhynia principality. By the 14th century, it had already become a prominent defensive structure in the Eastern European region. It served as an extension of the natural defense system for the medieval town of Kamianets-Podilsky, situated on a distinct rocky peninsula surrounded by the meandering Smotrych River.

Today, the fortress is one of the best-preserved medieval monuments in Ukraine; it is located in the territory of the modern Khmelnytskyi region and is open to visitors.

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The Skeiron team has been operating in Ukraine since 2016. At that time, they had digitally preserved over 250 historic buildings and 350 items from museum collections. As a result of the ongoing invasion, the team has recognized the significance of preserving Ukraine's architectural heritage. With each passing day, due to Russian aggression, there is a growing risk of losing these one-of-a-kind structures, which are essential representations of Ukrainian cities and the country in general.

In March 2022, architects and engineers launched the #SaveUkrainianHeritage project to preserve the heritage in digital form and reproduce it as accurately as possible in case of damage.

It's important to mention that the Yedysan Cultural Heritage Center focuses on the history of the Mykolaiv region, supporting local culture and preserving traditions. Rubryka shares how activists work on a cultural project in the front-line region in its article. To learn more, read Rubryka's piece: "Decolonizing Ukraine amid war: How cultural center in southern Mykolaiv region promotes Ukrainian heritage during Russian invasion."