Archane
A digital tool dedicated to the study of and public engagement for the Coudenberg Palace
Archane is a bespoke digital tool designed to collate, organise and showcase all the data from the archaeological research carried out at the Coudenberg Palace. The platform offers centralised access to a variety of resources such as plans, field surveys, photographs of excavations, illustrations and a specialised bibliography. By combining an archaeological information system, a timeline and 3D models within a single software programme, Archane enables the remains to be examined from a documentary, spatial and temporal perspective. In practical terms, this makes it possible, for example, to locate a specific structure on a plan, to compare the site’s condition at different periods, or to explore certain elements of the palace in three dimensions to better understand its layout and dimensions.
Archane also opens up interesting prospects for heritage research and engagement. In particular, the tool can serve as a platform for future scientific collaborations by facilitating the cross-referencing of data and the analysis of the site’s evolution over time. Thanks to 3D models, it provides a solid foundation for digital reconstructions of lost buildings, thereby offering a more comprehensive view of the palace complex. Furthermore, it can make spaces that are difficult to visit in person accessible virtually.
Key project dates
As a long-term project, Archane that continues to evolve in line with requirements.
2018 :
- Survey campaign of the Aula Magna.
- Establishment of the framework for the archaeological information system.
2019 :
- Continued development of the archaeological information system.
- Topographical surveys.
2020 :
- Integration of a timeline and 3D models into the platform.
- Survey campaign of the chapel and the main building.
2021 :
- Survey campaign of the former connection linking the site and the museum.
- Continued development of the archaeological information system.
2022 :
- Survey campaign of the museum section (Hoogstraeten House) and the neighbourhood.
2023 :
- Data entry into the archaeological information system.
- Launch of a 3D reconstruction for public engagement purposes based on the 3D models.
2024 – present :
- Continued development of the 3D visualisation for public engagement. Presentation of initial progress during the temporary exhibition UNDER-GROUND.
- Data entry into the archaeological information system.
- Creation of video clips for the audio guide.
It is the work of a multidisciplinary team: developed by Coudenberg Palace, financed by Beliris, in collaboration with UGeom, urban.brussels, the City of Brussels, the SRAB and IRPA-KIK.
