Digital Heritage
Have you ever wondered about the morphology of one of the most well-known spaces in the Real Alcázar de Sevilla? Today, we invite you on a fascinating journey through history, with the reconstruction and virtual integration of the past state of the Patio de las Doncellas. This project, carried out for MBC Audiovisuales, is part of the episode dedicated to the palatial residences in the program “Desmontando Andalucía” on Canal Sur.
A 3D journey to the past of the Real Alcázar de Sevilla
The Patio de las Doncellas: An Andalusian Architectural Gem
Brief History of the Real Alcázar of Seville
The Real Alcázar of Seville is a complex of palaces built over several centuries by different monarchs, from the Islamic period to the Christian era. This site is known for its architectural beauty and the richness of its details, showcasing the influence of diverse cultures and styles. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
The Patio de las Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens) and its Fame
The Patio de las Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens) is one of the most emblematic parts of the Royal Alcazar. This courtyard was built during the reign of King Pedro I of Castile in the 14th century and is an exceptional example of Mudéjar style. The name “Patio de las Doncellas” comes from a legend that tells that every year, noble Muslim families had to offer a maiden as tribute to the court.
From 3D Reconstruction to Virtual Integration
The process of 3D reconstruction of the Patio de las Doncellas has posed a technical and artistic challenge. As experts in digital heritage, our goal was to recreate the appearance of this space with the highest possible accuracy, when it was paved with marble slabs and a fountain stood in its center. To achieve this, we relied on available historical and archaeological research, as well as old photographs and engravings. Various techniques were employed, including camera matching, tracking, modeling, texturing, and 3D animation.
The Impact on the Public and Heritage Preservation
The 3D virtual integration of the pavement and fountain of the Patio de las Doncellas allows us to immerse ourselves in the recent past of this historical and monumental complex and appreciate the beauty of this architectural masterpiece from a different perspective. This project is yet another testament to the public’s interest in educational content, showcasing a strong social commitment to the preservation of our heritage. It serves as a fascinating tool for education and historical dissemination, contributing to the conservation and dissemination of the historical heritage of the Real Alcázar de Sevilla. It helps future generations understand and appreciate its cultural richness.
An Enriching Professional Experience in History
We hope that our participation in this project has been interesting and educational for the viewers. As always, we are committed to using our skills and technology to preserve and celebrate the historical and cultural heritage. We remind you that our work as virtual heritage experts and 3D artists is not just a technical matter, but also a way to respect and value our history and traditions, allowing them to endure and be accessible to all. We love being able to share our work and look forward to continuing to contribute to the promotion of Andalusian heritage in the future.
