The new online portal and digital applications developed within the framework of the project Digital Historical Guide to Modern History of Crete (18211913) were presented today at a press conference at the Region of Crete. The project was implemented through the Antonis Tritsis program of the Ministry of Interior, with the Region of Crete as the beneficiary, under the scientific supervision of the Historical Museum of Crete (HMC/IKM) and the contractor consortium NOVA ICT Aegean Solutions.
The digital historical guide was presented by (photo) the Deputy Regional Governor for Culture and Equality, Georgia Milaki, the Deputy Director of the Historical Museum of Crete, Agisilaos Kaloutsakis, and the CEO of Aegean Solutions, Alexandros Tzortzakakis, with other attendees including Varvara Tsaka from Aegean Solutions, Dimitris Kypriotakis from the Historical Museum of Crete, and the Deputy Director for Culture and Sports of the Region of Crete, Emmanouela Gerogiannaki.
Rich Digital and Interactive Content
The initiative has developed extensive digital and interactive content, allowing immediate and easy access to historical facts, testimonies, and documents, offering a comprehensive and vivid picture of Cretes past. Through this project, the Region of Crete aims to contribute significantly to recording and disseminating the islands history, as well as preserving and transmitting its cultural and historical heritage to younger generations.
The Historical Guide of Crete is accessible in Greek and English via https://www.crete-modernhistory.gr/.
By utilizing modern technologies and the solid scientific foundation provided by the Historical Museum, the project documents, organizes, and highlights Cretes historical and cultural wealth, from the 1821 Revolution to the Union with Greece. Special emphasis was placed on education, as the project also targets the school community in Crete. Through the new digital environment, citizens, students, and pupils can engage directly with local history, learn about important periods, figures, and events, and develop a deeper connection to their homeland.
English Translation and Tourist Accessibility
All content has been translated into English, enabling tourists and visitors to explore and learn about the key events that shaped modern Cretan history.
Augmented and Virtual Reality Applications
The project also includes an augmented reality (AR) app called Crete Modern History AR, available for Android and iOS devices, and a virtual reality (VR) application for VR headsets and touchscreens to be installed at selected locations. These tools will disseminate the digital content in a modern and engaging way to both the educational community and the general public.
Statements from Project Leaders
Deputy Regional Governor for Culture and Equality, Georgia Milaki, described the project as one of high cultural and technological value:
The Digital Historical Guide to Modern History of Crete is an innovative digital path highlighting the historical journey of our island. The platform combines historical documentation, digitization of archival material, and cutting-edge technology, creating a new way to access Cretes memory and identity. It is a virtual journey through the decisive events of Cretes modern history, presented in an accessible and engaging way, allowing users to explore revolutions and movements in Crete from 18211913, the major battles, social and political changes, and the historical figures who shaped the path to autonomy and union with Greece.
Agisilaos Kaloutsakis, Deputy Director of the Historical Museum of Crete, stated:
This project was a very interesting challenge for the Historical Museum of Crete, not only because studying and promoting local history is a primary goal of the Museum and the Society of Cretan Historical Studies, but also due to the added value of using digital technology dynamically. The project benefits both the wider public in and outside Crete and special groups such as the educational community. Our scientific team focused on identifying and documenting historical information to create the content of the application.
Alexandros Tzortzakakis, CEO of Aegean Solutions, highlighted:
The project implemented with NOVA ICT presents aspects of Cretes modern history that have not been sufficiently highlighted until now. Its added value lies in connecting the project with education through augmented and virtual reality applications that speak the language of the new generation, making access easier for students. Additionally, the translation into English links it with tourism, enhancing both historical and dark tourism experiences.
This project represents a significant step in digitally preserving and promoting Cretes modern history, combining education, tourism, and innovative technology.
