Discussion
The project addresses the urgent issue of the physical damage and destruction of historical and cultural heritage within Ukrainian cities as a result of the ongoing full-scale Russian invasion. Focusing on the devastating impact of the conflict, the research explores the dynamics of deliberate destruction of meaningful sites during armed conflicts, emphasizing their semantic significance and the broader implications for cultural memory and identity. By examining the collective memory of witnesses to such acts of “city violence,” the study seeks to illuminate the human experience of losing historically and culturally significant sites and the pressing need to preserve them as part of both national and global heritage. Preserving heritage is not merely an academic pursuit aimed at safeguarding history for future generations but a vital opportunity for residents to reconnect with their cultural identity and rebuild their shared history.
To achieve this, the project employs an applied Digital Humanities approach, utilizing advanced techniques to create 3D reconstructions of historical buildings and culturally significant sites that have been damaged or destroyed. This involves collecting visual and structural data from local archives in Ukrainian cities and the Ministry of Culture, relying on historical blueprints, photographs, and other documentation to inform the reconstructions. Simultaneously, interviews with local residents are being conducted to capture the collective narratives surrounding these sites, exploring their significance within the community and the deep connection between cultural heritage and individual identity. The project is currently in its initial stages, with efforts focused on Chernihiv, one of the most severely affected northern Ukrainian cities. In 2022, approximately 70% of Chernihiv was destroyed, including numerous historical and cultural heritage sites, some of which were under UNESCO protection. This case study underscores the catastrophic impact of armed conflict on urban cultural heritage and highlights the potential of digital reconstruction to address the resulting damage.
By combining historical analysis, community engagement, and innovative digital methodologies, this research aims to bridge the gap between memory and reconstruction, offering a model for cultural preservation that empowers communities to reclaim their identity and heritage even amidst ongoing challenges.
