The STECCI project is a landmark Horizon Europe initiative dedicated to developing sustainable and innovative protection strategies for cultural heritage in response to the growing challenges posed by climate change and environmental factors.

Heritage Malta plays a pivotal role in this project, leading efforts in digital acquisition missions across Europe. Utilizing advanced tools such as photogrammetry, LiDAR and drone technology, Heritage Malta aims to create precise and authentic digital models of Stećci—medieval tombstones of significant cultural importance. These efforts align with the European Union’s objectives to enhance digitization and ensure the accessibility and
preservation of these invaluable assets.

The Heritage Malta team successfully conducted a digital acquisition mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This mission laid the groundwork for the project’s overarching goal of assessing and preserving Stećci sites across Europe. Building on this success, the team completed the field mission which focused on three key sites: Dugo Polje (Blidinje), Ravanjska Vrata (Kupres), Radimlja (Stolac). Employing drones, LiDAR, and photogrammetry, the team captured high-quality digital data of these iconic tombstones. The data collected during these missions will contribute to developing innovative preservation strategies while fostering greater public engagement. The resulting 3D models will not only serve as valuable tools for researchers but also provide accessible digital content to promote wider appreciation of this unique heritage.

Looking ahead, further work is in the pipeline for 2025 building on these accomplishments, including initiatives that align with the project’s mission to promote cultural heritage through innovative and accessible digital tools. Heritage Malta remains committed to leveraging technology to preserve and share Europe’s rich cultural heritage, ensuring its legacy for future generations.