3D-4CH is an ambitious and forward-thinking initiative designed to transform how cultural heritage is preserved, digitized, and shared for educational and societal benefit. This groundbreaking project unites the rich history and cultural diversity of the European Union and Ukraine with cutting-edge technologies, setting a new benchmark for digital heritage innovation.

Building on the foundations of influential EU-funded projects including 4CH, Common European Data Space for Cultural Heritage, and 5Dculture 3D-4CH aims to elevate the role of 3D digitization and advanced technologies in cultural preservation.

A vision of excellence

3D-4CH aims to be a vibrant hub for innovation, collaboration and learning. Designed as a fully online platform, it will bring together leading cultural heritage institutions (CHIs), researchers, and practitioners to unlock the full potential of 3D technologies. By leveraging the extensive networks of E-RIHS (European Research Infrastructure for Heritage Science) and national nodes established through 4CH, the centre will deliver transformative impact across four key pillars:

• Training and capacity building - the centre will offer online training courses, in-person workshops and seasonal field workshops. Benchmarked against the 3D-4CH curriculum and delivered in partnerships with universities and training centres these courses will offer certification to participants.
• Services and tools - A curated collection of cutting-edge resources, including guidelines, best practices, and state-of-the-art tools in 3D digitization, artificial intelligence (AI), and extended reality (XR) will be provided.
• 3D deployment - The creation of new and enhanced high-quality 3D cultural assets which implement standards for metadata, paradata, and sustainable archiving.
• Research and development - by collaborating with leading research initiatives and through continuous exploration and the adoption of next-generation technologies, the Centre will ensure the seamless application of new methodologies to real-world cultural heritage challenges

A special focus on Ukraine

At its heart, the project is deeply committed to fostering inclusivity and addressing urgent cultural needs. Inspired by the 4CH "SUM – Save Ukraine Monuments" initiative, the Centre places a strong emphasis on Ukrainian cultural heritage, actively involving Ukrainian CHIs in all project activities. By creating a dedicated pipeline for integrating Ukrainian 3D content into the European data space, the project seeks to preserve and celebrate Ukraine's rich cultural legacy during challenging times.

Transformative impact and lasting legacy

The 3d-4CH Competence Centre is designed to be a beacon of progress and sustainability, delivering:

• Expert Guidance and Validation: Insights from a prestigious Advisory Board of international scholars and a Stakeholder Panel of CHI representatives will ensure scientific rigor and practical relevance.
• Sustainability and Accessibility: A comprehensive long-term data strategy rooted in open access, interoperability, and licensing standards will guarantee that all resources remain available for at least five years post-project.
• Global Inspiration: A model for international collaboration and technological excellence that demonstrates the power of cultural heritage will strive to unite and inspire.

By blending advanced technologies with a deep respect for cultural diversity and historical significance, the Online Competence Centre for 3D promises to redefine how we preserve and experience our shared heritage. Join us in shaping a future where cultural treasures are not only safeguarded but celebrated and shared with the world.