Burgas: 3D Visualization Revives the Ancient Heritage of Aquae Calidae

Burgas, Bulgaria – In one of its most significant cultural centers, the city is once again demonstrating its commitment to preserving and digitizing its rich heritage. On the eve of August 29, at 3:00 PM, the "Aquae Calidae" Thermal Complex will host the official presentation of a remarkable new project. Under the motto "Aquae Calidae – The Favorite Baths of Rulers", the Regional Historical Museum – Burgas, in partnership with the Municipal Enterprise "Tourism – Burgas Municipality," will present an ambitious 3D visualization that promises to transform how visitors experience history.

The project, co-financed by the "Creation" 2024 program of the National Culture Fund, is not just a technical achievement but the result of precise and multifaceted work. A team of leading specialists in archaeology, history, museology, and 3D technologies joined forces to recreate one of Bulgaria's most complex archaeological sites. The complexity stems from the presence of multiple cultural layers, testifying to different eras and civilizations.

A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME: THE RESURRECTION OF EARLY BYZANTINE GLORY

The main goal of the project is to immerse viewers in the heyday of "Aquae Calidae"—the early Byzantine period that followed the devastating barbarian invasions. Through a captivating VR experience, the new cultural product transports visitors to the heart of the Byzantine city, revealing its monumental architecture, impressive fortress walls, and magnificent ancient baths. This innovative approach not only facilitates the understanding of cultural heritage but also transforms the archaeological site into a dynamic and interactive space.

The culmination of the event will be at the excavation site itself, where official guests and authors will talk about the creative process. The project's authors – Martin Kostov from "Tornado Studio" and Prof. Dr. Georgi Hristov from the "Angel Kanchev" University of Ruse – will be present to share their vision. They will be joined by the head of archaeological research, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dimcho Momchilov, and the director of the Regional Historical Museum – Burgas, Dr. Milen Nikolova, who will share valuable details from their years of work on the site.

THE FRUIT OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND CREATIVE VISION

This original cultural product is the result of close collaboration with the team of archaeologists who have worked on the site over the years. It is based on their in-depth research and discoveries. Key figures such as Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dimcho Momchilov and Dr. Milen Nikolov, as well as Chief Assist. Prof. Dr. Radovesta Stewart, participated in the development, and their expertise and creative vision were crucial for presenting the site to the general public.

The new 3D visualization will be permanently available to visitors in the halls of the "Aquae Calidae" Exhibition and Demonstration Center. Furthermore, on August 29, guests will have the opportunity to learn about the latest results of this year's archaeological research in the area.

AN EVENING OF BOOKS: A SEPARATE EVENT AT THE ETHNOGRAPHIC MUSEUM

After the presentation of the innovative visualization, the day's cultural marathon will continue. Later, at 5:00 PM, in the courtyard of the Ethnographic Museum – Burgas at 69 Slavyanska St., Dr. Milen Nikolov will present her new book. Its title, "Hesychast Monastic Centers in Paroria and the Second Bulgarian Empire in the 14th Century", shifts the focus to another important period of Bulgarian history.

With two events in one day, the city of Burgas confirms its commitment to the preservation and promotion of its cultural heritage, combining high technology with an academic approach.