Protection, Restoration, and Digital Promotion of Albania’s Cultural Heritage
Mon & Tech
MON TECH is an innovative project aimed at protecting, restoring, and promoting Albanian cultural heritage through an integrated approach that combines modern technology with on-site physical interventions. The project focuses on the revaluation of historical monuments and culturally significant sites by merging careful physical restoration with documentation and promotion through digital tools.
One of the main pillars of the project is the restoration of monuments at risk of degradation, following international conservation standards. This process will be carried out in collaboration with cultural heritage specialists, licensed architects, and conservators, with the aim of restoring the authentic value and historical functionality of these structures.
In parallel with the physical interventions, MON & TECH includes the digitization and 3D archiving of monuments, the use of augmented reality (AR), the creation of virtual exhibitions, and the development of interactive platforms that will offer a contemporary experience of heritage for both local and international audiences.
This combination of restoration and technology creates a new model for the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, offering a comprehensive approach that raises awareness, fosters cultural education, and strengthens cultural tourism in Albania. MON & TECH aims to be a successful example of blending tradition with innovation, ensuring a sustainable future for our shared past.
What does MON & TECH – Monuments and Technology project include?
MON & TECH is a comprehensive initiative aimed at the protection, restoration, and digital promotion of Albania’s cultural heritage through a modern and inclusive approach. The project includes the following core components:
Identification and Assessment of Monuments
Selection of monuments with significant historical, cultural, or architectural value that are at risk due to time, lack of maintenance, or inappropriate interventions.
Physical Restoration and Conservation
Specialized interventions for the restoration of monuments, in accordance with professional cultural heritage standards, preserving their authenticity and original values.
3D Digitization and Documentation
3D scanning and the creation of digital models for long-term preservation and public access, as well as to support future restoration efforts.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Interactive Platforms
Development of applications that allow visitors to experience monuments as they appeared in the past, through augmented reality or virtual tours.
Digital Archive and Online Access
Creation of an online platform where researchers, students, tourists, and the general public can explore monuments, their history, and visual/3D materials.
Which monuments are included in the project?
In the first phase of the MON & TECH project, the focus is placed on selected monuments based on their historical importance, current condition, and potential for cultural and tourism development.
Included monuments (examples):
Elbasan Castle and the Early Christian Basilica
Important historical structures located in the heart of Elbasan.
Bashtova Castle (Fier County)
A unique medieval monument with rare architectural value.
Gorica Bridge (Berat)
A symbol of the city and a historic link between communities.
Ardenica Monastery
A spiritual and architectural heritage site of great significance.
The Mosaic of Apollonia and surrounding archaeological monuments; includes excavation work and digital modeling of ruins.
The Lead Mosque in Shkodër
Targeted for restoration and historical visualization through AR (augmented reality).
Traditional buildings in Gjirokastër and Berat (UNESCO World Heritage Sites)
3D scans of old houses and models of typical traditional dwellings.
The list may be expanded based on collaboration with local institutions and the urgent needs of other monuments across the country.
RUDINA PAPAVASILI
Architect