We are thrilled to present an animated film created as part of the DGTRAN project! It’s a unique storytelling journey that brings the legacy of Vytautas the Great to life through the power of animation, history, and digital innovation.
The short film takes viewers on a virtual tour of 11 castles across Ukraine, Poland, and Lithuania, all of which were digitized in 3D during the DGTRAN project. Narrated in the voice of Vytautas himself, the film invites audiences to discover the rich cultural heritage of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the regions connected by its influence.
Through dynamic animation and immersive narration, Vytautas leads viewers to the most iconic sites of his time, like:
- Lutsk Castle, where the historic Congress of Monarchs took place in 1429, gathering rulers from across Europe.
- Vilnius Upper Castle, the beating heart of the Grand Duchy, enduring through wars and remaining a symbol of Lithuanian statehood.
- Bielsk Podlaski Castle, a western defensive stronghold that protected borders from the Teutonic and Muscovite forces.
Each castle comes alive not only with historical facts but also with reflections on their strategic, cultural, and symbolic importance, many of which are still relevant today.
In particular, the video touches on the reality that some of these sites, like Tyagyn Fortress and Vytautas Tower, are now under threat due to the Russian aggresion against Ukraine, underlining the urgency of digital preservation.
This animated film complements our broader efforts in the DGTRAN project to digitize and safeguard cultural heritage using 3D and AR technologies. It’s not only an educational tool but also a powerful reminder of the deep historical roots that connect our countries.
Watch the film and travel through time with Vytautas, uncovering stories, secrets, and shared heritage across centuries!
