The project “HERMES – Heritage Rehabilitation as Multiplier cultural Empowerment within Social context” funded by the Cross-Border Program “INTERREG Greece-Italy 2014-2020,” participated in the 9th Panhellenic Exhibition of Arta. A multitude of visitors from all age groups visited the booth of the Laboratory of Knowledge & Intelligent Computing of the Department of Informatics and Telecommunications at the University of Ioannina and had a firsthand experience of the innovative digital applications developed by the research team of the project.

The innovative applications of this project focus on digitally highlighting the cultural wealth of the regions of Arta and Apulia. Visitors were able to immerse themselves in a world of cutting-edge digital applications, including an augmented reality application, a digital book (e-Book) on the history of the Byzantine Castle of Arta, and the historical connection between the regions of Arta and Apulia. They also had the opportunity to enjoy a mesmerizing VR tour of the castle and a gamified version of its exploration, as well as a digital journey to the Small Theater of Ambracia.

Finally, members of the laboratory presented printed books authored by members of the research team during the music and theatrical events of the project. Specifically, the book “The Bridge of Arta – The Sacrifice of the Protomastoras” includes information about the theatrical performance “The Sacrifice of the Protomastoras” presented by the HERMES theater group, as well as a brief but comprehensive description of the history of the Bridge of Arta. Another book, “Tribute to the Poet Kostas Krystallis,” featuring a tribute to the life and work of the eminent poet, chronicler, and folklorist, was developed as part of the theatrical performance of the HERMES youth theater group. The book “Tracing Greco-Italian Collaboration in Music Art” included information about the music workshops, concerts featuring works by Greek and Italian composers, many of which were presented for the first time worldwide, as well as information from the broader historical context that emerged following historical research.

For more information, visit the project website: https://www.hermes-culture.eu/