PM: A trendsetter since 1471: HistoPad to be launched at Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle
30.07.2020
Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle becomes the first historic location in Germany to feature augmented reality with the HistoPad. The oldest castle in Germany welcomes cutting-edge technology from France.
In August 2020, you can look forward to an unforgettable augmented reality tour of Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle with the HistoPad. The cutting-edge tablet guide has been developed by the State Palaces, Castles and Gardens of Saxony, non-profit, in collaboration with the French start-up, Histovery.
“Due to the corona-pandemic, domestic holiday destinations are more popular than ever, resulting in an increasing competition between the German holiday regions. Thus, innovation in tourism products are now particularly important for the Free State of Saxony. By introducing the new 'HistoPad'-Tours, Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle takes advantage of this innovation potential. The 'HistoPad' is a perfect example how to discover touristic attractions in a new and lively way. It perfectly completes our diverse tourist offer in the regional tourist destination of Dresden Elbland and in Saxony,” states Barbara Klepsch, Minister for Culture and Tourism of the Free State of Saxony.
A spectacular journey through time
The new HistoPad will feature eight 3D reconstructions of the historic castle halls, immersing guests in the aura of Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle. The HistoPad will take visitors as far back as the 15th century, featuring virtual presentations of Margrave Albert’s private chambers in 1485, the banquet hosted by Princess Sidonia in the Great Court Chamber in 1493, and the modeling room at the Porcelain Manufactory in the 19th century. The room layouts, furnishings, decorations and other features have been faithfully reconstructed according to historical models. The reconstructions have been developed on the basis of careful historical research by a team of digitization specialists at Histovery and proven experts from the State Palaces, Castles and Gardens of Saxony.
The HistoPad will allow guests to digitally explore the architecture and paintings at Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle, giving them a better understanding of its history and transformations. Thanks to the high-resolution images, they will be able to zoom in and view interesting objects in greater detail.
A treasure hunt for children
Young visitors will be able to join their parents on a treasure hunt, send themselves a historical selfie and use the interactive map to find their way around the castle and get useful information, turning every visit into an entertaining journey of discovery.
A first for Germany
When the HistoPad is launched at Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle, it will become the first attraction in Germany to welcome visitors with augmented reality technology. The tablet guide will be included in the standard admission price, and (almost) every guest will be able to use a device in their own language.
Germany’s oldest castle: a trendsetter since 1471
Dr. Christian Striefler, the Managing Director of the State Palaces, Castles and Gardens of Saxony, non-profit, is enthusiastic about the new education tool: “The introduction of the HistoPad at Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle is another example of how we are constantly trying to create an immersive experience to convey the history of the State Palaces, Castles and Gardens of Saxony. Our virtual reconstructions, 360-degree panoramas and 3D presentations will immerse our visitors in history, allowing them to travel in time at our historical locations.
Virtual and augmented reality represent huge leaps in the portrayal of historical content, opening up a whole new world of possibilities. People will be amazed to see their historical monuments become increasingly colorful and tangible over the coming years.
The HistoPad at Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle is a wonderful tool that we’ve developed with the French company, Histovery, to create a hands-on experience and reveal the hidden treasures of Germany’s oldest castle. Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle is once again living up to its reputation as a »trendsetter since 1471«”.
promotion clip, 360 degree visuals and tutorials: YouTube playlist
key visual, photos, logos and further information (pdf): Download
Find out more:
www.albrechtsburg-meissen.de/en