3D scanning to reveal secrets of historic church murals

In an ambitious digital research initiative, the 'Grote Kerk' church – often dubbed the 'Sistine Chapel of the North' – in the Dutch town of Naarden is undergoing a meticulous 3D scanning process. This project aims to uncover the long-hidden secrets behind the church’s elaborate mediaeval murals, whose origins have remained elusive for centuries.

The stunning murals that grace the ceiling of the Grote Kerk are thought to date back to the late Middle Ages. However, the identity of the artists and the exact timeframe of their creation have remained a matter of speculation. To address these historical ambiguities, young researchers from multiple Dutch universities are joining forces to produce a digital 3D model of the church's barrel vault.

Preserving cultural treasures

The team is employing advanced 3D scanning technology to create detailed digital replicas of the murals. These high-resolution scans will allow researchers to examine the artwork in extraordinary detail, revealing nuances in the brushwork and pigment application that are invisible to the naked eye. This in-depth analysis could potentially lead to the identification of the artists and provide new insights into the techniques and materials they used.

Beyond its historical implications, the project is a vital step in the preservation of these cultural treasures. The digital models generated through the 3D scanning process will serve as an enduring record, safeguarding the artwork for future generations and making it accessible to a broader audience via online platforms.

Before the large-scale restoration begins, students are given the freedom to explore and work within the church. Thanks to advanced technology, it is now possible to document these expansive surfaces with exceptional detail. The students are also tasked with figuring out how they can support the restoration process. For instance, by digitally modelling the interventions restorers wish to attempt, the team can test different approaches without risking the actual vault, where precision is crucial.

The project covers 700 square metres of painted planks and beams. Once the research and scanning are complete, the restoration will take 2.5 years and will require an investment of over €2 million.

As this innovative project moves forward, the researchers are optimistic that their work will illuminate new aspects of the Grote Kerk’s artistic legacy, offering a deeper understanding of a significant piece of Dutch cultural heritage.