The intersection of history and technology is a place of boundless wonder, and Turkey's rich cultural heritage is no exception to this digital evolution. In a visionary move, the ancient city of Zeugma, nestled in the southeastern Gaziantep province, is taking its first steps into the metaverse, offering a glimpse into the past that was once buried in the annals of time.

Date

September 13, 2023

The House of Dionysus, a remarkable discovery within the ancient city of Zeugma during excavations, is now finding a new lease of life in the virtual realm. Gaziantep Metropolitan Municipality, recognizing the treasure trove of historical artifacts housed in the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, has embarked on an ambitious project to share this wealth with a global audience.

Bringing Zeugma to the Metaverse

The journey began by recreating the House of Dionysus in a meticulously detailed 3D format, allowing it to thrive in the digital space of the metaverse. This groundbreaking initiative bridges the gap between ancient history and cutting-edge technology, creating a virtual experience that transcends time and space.

For history enthusiasts who may not have the opportunity to visit the museum in person, the metaverse offers a lifelike alternative. Equipped with virtual-reality glasses, visitors can now explore the House of Dionysus and its mesmerizing mosaics with unparalleled immersion.

A Visionary Mayor’s Perspective

At the “First Step to the Metaverse World” program held at the Planetarium and Science Center, Gaziantep Metropolitan Mayor Fatma Şahin emphasized the importance of embracing technology while preserving cultural heritage. Gaziantep, known for its rich history, is taking strides to ensure that its ancient treasures are not confined to the pages of history books.

Mayor Şahin’s words resonate with a forward-looking vision for Turkey. She pointed out that tomorrow’s Turkey must be prepared for the youth, and this preparation involves keeping pace with the ever-evolving world of technology. It is this commitment to embracing technology that is driving Gaziantep’s journey into the metaverse.

The Magic of Zeugma

Zeugma, an ancient Hellenistic and Roman city, is a treasure trove of history and culture. The mosaics unearthed at this archaeological site are now housed in the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, a testament to the city’s glorious past. These mosaics are not merely pieces of art; they are windows into the lives and stories of the people who once called Zeugma home.

The metaverse project expands the reach of Zeugma’s historical legacy. As the House of Dionysus and other artifacts come to life in the digital realm, they transcend the constraints of time and geography. People from around the world can now embark on a virtual journey to witness the wonders of Zeugma.

A Glimpse of the Future

Turkey’s foray into the metaverse, spearheaded by the preservation and presentation of its ancient treasures, underscores the transformative potential of technology. By marrying the rich tapestry of history with the boundless possibilities of the digital age, the nation is taking a bold step towards shaping a future where cultural heritage is not only preserved but also shared with a global audience.

The House of Dionysus, Zeugma’s illustrious resident, now stands as a beacon of this journey. As technology continues to evolve, it is exciting to imagine what other treasures from the past will find new life in the metaverse, where the past, present, and future converge in a digital tapestry of wonder and discovery.

Photos:
AA Photos

Original articles:
Daily Sabah
Investing