Southampton Revives Its Medieval Monuments Through 3D Modeling

The streets of Southampton are full of historic buildings, some of which date back to the Middle Ages, reflecting a rich medieval past. Today, new technology makes it possible to bring these architectural treasures back to life thanks to 3D modeling, offering virtual access to heritage, directly from a smartphone. This initiative combines history and innovation, allowing you to discover or rediscover monuments that are often inaccessible, in an immersive and enriching experience.

From restoration to virtualization of monuments

This project, which the BBC recently highlighted, begins in 2021. Southampton then undertakes the restoration of Weigh House, a building dating from the 13th century. The municipality wishes to protect these historic monuments while guaranteeing their access for future generations. With 3D modeling, these emblematic places become accessible, even in the event of closure or deterioration of the structures.

The technology used is based on laser scanners, capable of capturing the smallest architectural details. From the textures of the stones to the finely sculpted vaults, each element is reproduced with remarkable precision.

This process makes it possible to transform buildings such as the Bargate, formerly the fortified gate of Southampton, or the House of God, an emblematic medieval tower, into virtual images. The digital models produced are of impressive quality.

This digital representation allows users to discover monuments that are often difficult to access, by eliminating obstacles such as steps.

This digital representation allows users to discover monuments that are often difficult to access, by eliminating obstacles such as steps.
Credit: University of Southampton

Now, the city has a digital version of these monuments, enriched with precise architectural characteristics and offering a tangible memory for years to come.

Monuments just a click away for the general public

To make these models accessible, Southampton has set up a QR code system. Located in cultural sites and public places, these codes allow visitors with a smartphone to discover 3D versions of the scanned monuments.

Visitors can explore every corner of the Bargate. They can also get a close-up look at the details of St Michael's Prison or view Weigh House, without having to adhere to strict visiting times or purchase a ticket.

This innovation also makes heritage accessible to everyone, even to those for whom physical access remains difficult. It includes in particular people with reduced mobility and those residing abroad.

This virtual opening makes it possible to transcend geographical and physical limits, transforming Southampton into a virtual museum accessible on a global scale. The initiative thus attracts a varied and international audience, offering everyone the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history of Southampton, without any constraints.

Educational impact for future generations

In addition to the user experience, 3D modeling also serves as a learning platform for students at the University of Southampton. They participate in the project by carrying out the scans, creating 3D models and processing the data. This field training provides them with essential technical skills, particularly in digital archeology and heritage preservation. These areas become crucial with technological advancements.

Under the supervision of experts such as Dr. Felix Pedrotti, students train on state-of-the-art equipment. They also learn to analyze structures and create faithful digital replicas of ancient monuments. This learning goes well beyond simple technical mastery. It immerses them in the medieval world and enriches their vision of daily life, constructions and cultural symbols of the time.

Dr. Pedrotti emphasizes that the technology “opens up fascinating perspectives” and offers new understanding of “medieval architecture, culture and daily life.” » Through this experience, students become pioneers in their field. They contribute concretely to the preservation and transmission of historical heritage.

Perspectives for digital preservation

This project in Southampton heralds a future where digitalization and augmented reality could become important allies in preserving heritage. Creating these digital replicas offers a valuable form of backup for buildings threatened by time and bad weather. These replicas allow them to “survive” even in the face of potential damage.

Jo Bailey, Southampton's monuments manager, emphasizes that this technology “pushes the limits imposed by the nature of the sites and the opening hours”. She hopes this model will inspire other historic towns to preserve their heritage while making it more accessible.

Collaborations with international institutions could, ultimately, allow the sharing of these advances and enrich this digital approach. Southampton thus opens a new era of conservation where innovations complement traditional methods. This initiative inspires medieval cities, which, like Southampton, could see their heritage revived in digital form and accessible to all.

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