Experts Gather in Visby to Showcase Cutting-Edge Technology in Cultural Heritage Preservation

From October 6 to 8, the Gotland Museum's Fornsalen in Visby will host the Heritage Science Sweden Forum, bringing together experts from Sweden and across Europe to explore how modern technology can aid in understanding and preserving ancient history. Representatives from seven universities and prominent institutions like The British Museum will participate to discuss innovative scientific methods and their application in cultural heritage.

A significant highlight of the conference is the use of 3D neutron radiography, a technique allowing researchers to decipher ancient runic inscriptions on fragile rolled metal plates, known as runbleck, without causing damage. This advanced technology exemplifies efforts to unlock secrets of the past using non-invasive tools.

The forum's agenda also covers interpretation of runic texts from Gotlandic churches, underwater heritage science, and strategies to protect museum collections against current-day threats through digital solutions. Sara Norrehed, head of Cultural Heritage and Science at the Swedish National Heritage Board, emphasized Gotland's archaeological richness, noting multiple sessions dedicated to innovative research on its cultural heritage.

Adding historical perspective, Professor Kerstin Lidén will deliver a keynote lecture on societal transformations in Scandinavia from 300 to 700 CE. While presentations will be conducted in English, many speakers are native Swedish.

This conference underscores Sweden's role at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technology with cultural heritage science, fostering cross-border collaboration to better preserve historical artefacts and knowledge for future generations.