International forum in Bulgaria gathers experts from 10 countries

Digitalization is important for cultural heritage, but it can be used in a double way, said architect Petar Petrov, Director of the National Institute for Immovable Cultural Heritage of Bulgaria (NIICH), at the opening of the fourth edition of the international forum “Digitalization and Innovation for Cultural Heritage”.

The initiative, organized by the Buzludzha Project Foundation, is taking place on Thursday and Friday in Sofia, Bulgaria, CE Report quotes BTA.

According to him, initiatives like this have been particularly important in recent years. Petrov recalled that in 2021, a Cultural Heritage Protection Act was adopted.

“No one expects this law to be perfect. Of course, it has many, many positive aspects, but it still does not function as it should,” he said.

Digitalization is a relatively new phenomenon. It can be used in two ways, both for constructive and destructive purposes, because it is simply a tool. How it is used depends on people. It will continue to expand further into society’s life. Until now, the material environment has been predominant, he explained.

According to Benjamin Koster, head of Communication and Culture at the German Embassy in Sofia, cultural heritage plays a key role in building trust between societies and promoting dialogue between countries.

Koster also stressed the role of digitalization, which makes cultural heritage more accessible, especially when physical access to certain sites is limited. In the context of contemporary conflicts, he noted that digital technologies can help preserve and promote endangered cultural assets.

Experts, entrepreneurs, and creators from 10 countries will participate in the fourth edition of the international forum “Digitalization and Innovation for Cultural Heritage.” The forum is taking place in Sofia on Thursday and Friday.