Digital transition in Cultural Heritage: the 4CH and 3D-4CH projects in advancing European strategies

The digital transition in the Cultural Heritage (CH) sector is a strategic priority in European policies, in line with FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) and the development of common data spaces. Digital technologies are vital for preservation, documentation, and enhancement of CH, addressing risks from climate, nature, and human actions. European initiatives underline the value of collaboration and integrated infrastructures to ensure long-term heritage sustainability. The Horizon 2020 4CH project marked a key step by establishing the foundations for a European Competence Centre for Cultural Heritage Conservation. It advanced standards, guidelines, and best practices, fostering institutional cooperation and digital capacity building. Building on these results, the 3D-4CH project – funded under the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) – aims to reshape the digital CH ecosystem through the creation of a Competence Centre dedicated to 3D Heritage. The project focuses on improving skills through multilingual training, offering online platforms with guidelines for 3D digitization, integrating high-quality 3D content into European data spaces, and advancing research in AI and augmented reality. A defining feature is its commitment to long-term data preservation through robust data management plans, ensuring interoperability and reusability of 3D models. 3D-4CH also strengthens synergies among institutions, promoting innovation in education, tourism, and conservation. By supporting inclusive and sustainable approaches, the project contributes to the European Commission's vision of making CH a dynamic, shared resource for future generations.