The Triumphal Arch in Arona
Unveiling: April 29th, 2017
Khaled al-Asaad Archaeological Museum, Arona Italy
The Triumphal Arch in Arona
Unveiling: April 29th, 2017
Khaled al-Asaad Archaeological Museum, Arona Italy
A CElebration of cultural heritage and A reflection on courage and sacrifice
The Institute for Digital Archaeology unveiled its reconstruction of Palmyra's arch in Arona, Italy on April 29, 2017. Thousands crowded Arona's main square for an evening of extraordinary music, moving speeches and humble reflection. We were honored to host the family of the late Khaled al-Asaad, the Syrian archaeologist and curator of the Palmyra Museum, at the event and at a commemorative dinner that followed. Mr. Asaad was murdered by ISIS in 2015 while protecting his country's cultural patrimony. Presented in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation and the Arona Mayor's office, the event sought to provide a fitting tribute to the men and women around the world who undertake the challenging and often dangerous work of preserving and celebrating our shared cultural heritage. As always, the reconstructed Triumphal Arch, a joint effort of people, organizations and governments from East and West, was offered as a symbol of unity, optimism and peace.
L’Arco di Palmira torna a vivere. In Italia.
L'arco di Palmira in 3d arriva ad Arona
Ricostruito nel Novarese Arco Palmira
Sul lago Maggiore la riproduzione dell'Arco di Palmira
Arco di Palmira distrutto da Isis rinasce ad Arona, omaggio a archeologo al-Asaad
Emozione ad Arona per L’Arco di Palmira
"By using digital techniques to map and preserve monuments and other aspects of shared human history, we are able to ensure that nobody can deny history or dictate that their narrative or ideology stands above the shared story of all humanity and our shared aspiration to live together in harmony.
There is actually a message within the Million Image Database initiative for those who think you can wipe out our human heritage with acts of destruction. What you destroy, we can create again. Our desire to live together, to work together for our humanity is a positive force that can rebuild everything you break. Ultimately, we are stronger because we build.
The Million Image Database is a remarkable collective effort in which everyone has the opportunity to participate. It is that participation and collaborative aspect to the project that makes it such a powerful symbol for our shared desire to come together and celebrate human achievements, preserving them and sharing them around the world.
This partnership between the Dubai Future Foundation and The Institute for Digital Archaeology is extending the boundaries of what we can achieve using the remarkable potential of 3D printing and carving. It is also an important example of how we can work together to make a positive contribution to preserving and sharing monuments and artifacts that represent our collective past and cement our future.
There has been a great deal of conflict in our region and many monuments and artifacts representing the achievements of golden eras in our past have been lost as a consequence. Many have been intentionally destroyed in an effort to erase the memory of a time when people of all faiths and origins worked together to create a golden age of scientific, cultural and social achievements. This collaboration between the Dubai Future Foundation and The Institute for Digital Archaeology means that we can literally roll back the clock and restore what the nihilists have damaged. It is a message to them: everything they are working to erase can be preserved. Their destruction is as futile as their ideology.
We are delighted to be able to bring together so many people from around the world to collaborate on this important project of historical restoration and preservation. As a result, some of the ancient world's most remarkable achievements can not only be kept for future generations to enjoy, but thanks to innovative 3D technologies, can be rebuilt anywhere in the world for all of humanity to enjoy."
His Excellency Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi
Minister of Cabinet Affairs and The Future, Dubai UAE
Managing Director of Dubai Future Foundation
The exhibition
The coinciding exhibition at the newly dedicated Khaled al-Asaad Museum in Arona Italy will explore all aspects of cultural heritage and its preservation. Beginning with the history of ancient sites in Syria, via a panoramic journey through some of the Middle Easts most beautiful, and now damaged locations, and ending with the hope of new technology, the exhibition will educate and inspire.
The Educational Program
In conjunction with the Future Opportunity Exchange (FOx) at Magdalen College, Oxford, Workshops and a sustained educational program will be offered before, during and after the unveiling. The programs focus on creating an understanding of 'place' and the social importance of the built world. These programs will be the beginning of a long-term educational plan from the IDA and FOx.
The Tactile exhibition
After exhibitions in New York City, at the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Books Library and the National Federation of Blind People in Baltimore, the IDA's groundbreaking tactile exhibition will go on display in Arona. While originally designed to aid sight impaired museum visitors, the exhibition allows audiences to experience the Triumphal Arch in an entirely new and meaningful way.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
Academic Lecture Series
The Academic Lecture Series will take place throughout the summer of 2017. Notable speakers include
- Italian writer Viviano Domenici
- Egyptian-born journalist Magdi Allam
- Italian art critic Vittorio Sgarbi
- Classicist Mary Lefkowitz
- A high profile member of the Syrian ex-pat community
Dates to be announced
Conference
Conference themes will include
- Business development for people interested in commercial applications of 3D printing
- The Venice Charter and next steps for Heritage Reconstruction
Dates and speakers to be announced
Educational Programs
Educational programs will continue throughout the summer in Arona, providing workshops, classes and museum tours for children and families of all ages. Some elements of these programs will include
- 3D Printing for All Ages
- Imaging Technology - Learning the art of Photogrammetry