At Domschatz Minden, history is no longer just a thing of the past, but within reach thanks to innovative technology. A special highlight of the Domschatz Minden app impressively demonstrates how modern technology and historical heritage can work together perfectly. Watch the video to see for yourself.

A significant work of art, marked by fire

The Madonna from the 13th century, once part of the magnificent coronation group of the Marian altar. The figure suffered considerable damage in the devastating fire of 1945 - the torso was almost completely destroyed. What is particularly tragic is that there are very few historical photographs of this art-historically valuable exhibit that document its original condition.

Digital reconstruction: from fragment to complete work of art

In view of this limited source material, the digital reconstruction posed a particular challenge. Based on the sparse image material, we painstakingly created a three-dimensional model that shows the Madonna in her original splendour. 

Augmented reality: the portal to the past

However, the real innovation lies in the way it is presented. Visitors can now take an impressive journey through time using augmented reality (AR). The operation is very simple: in the Domschatz Minden app, you navigate to the digital information panel of the exhibit and tap on “AR content”. If you then point the camera of your smartphone or tablet at the damaged figure, something magical happens: the complete reconstruction of the Madonna appears above the burnt torso in its original splendor.

Added value through digital expansion

This AR application is far more than just a technical gimmick. It offers real added value for the museum experience: 

• It makes history directly tangible by allowing visitors to view a work of art that has not existed in its original form for almost 80 years. 
• It creates an emotional connection to the past by making the loss caused by the fire tangible. 
• It complements the traditional museum tour with an interactive component that appeals to younger generations in particular. 

AR in museums: the future of cultural heritage

The use of augmented reality in the Minden Cathedral Treasury is an example of a new chapter in museum education. The technology enables exhibits to be contextualized, supplemented and placed in a broader historical context. The original, as an authentic testimony to history, always remains the focus of attention.

Unlike virtual reality, which transports visitors into completely virtual worlds, AR combines the physical presence in the museum with digital content. This symbiosis of authenticity and innovation creates a multi-layered experience that appeals to different types of learners and opens up new perspectives.

The Domschatz Minden app is an example of how digital reconstructions can help not only to preserve cultural heritage, but also to keep it alive and make it accessible to new generations. At a time when the loss of historical artifacts due to wars, natural disasters or simply the ravages of time is a constant threat, such technologies are becoming increasingly important for cultural preservation.

The Madonna from the Domschatz Minden may have been badly damaged in the fire of 1945 - but thanks to digital reconstruction and augmented reality, it now shines in its new, old glory and tells its story.

With AR-Explorer Museum , your museum becomes a modern experience that makes optimal use of today's technology.