Research Lab at Grote Kerk Naarden

From August 26th to September 1st 2024, the Grote Kerk Naarden in the Netherlands became a hub of cutting-edge research as it hosted a pioneering 3D scanning and 3D modelling project. For one week, a team of students from various Dutch universities, under the guidance of international experts from the Factum Foundation and Utrecht University, scanned and created a detailed digital 3D model of the church’s historic 16th-century ceiling paintings. Considering its scale, this initiative is the first of its kind in the Netherlands, integrating 3D technology to advance the conservation and restoration of this fragile cultural heritage.

The painted ceiling © Grote Kerk Naarden, Roel Bogaards

The painted vault of Grote Kerk Naarden, covering 700 square meters, is a unique treasure in Northern Europe. Sanne Frequin and Daantje Meuwissen from Universiteit Utrecht emphasise the unprecedented opportunities this approach offers. Frequin notes: “3D technology allows us to study and interact with the vault in ways that are impossible in the physical space.” Meuwissen adds: “The research aims to uncover the identity of the anonymous artist behind these biblical murals, enhancing our understanding of this important artwork.”

This research marks the beginning of a major restoration effort for these 500-year-old masterpieces. Ellen Snoep, Director of the Grote Kerk Naarden Foundation, highlights the project’s significance: “It blends scientific research, restoration, and public engagement, offering new possibilities for museum presentations and future exhibitions.”

The result was a high-resolution recording of significant parts of the extraordinary C16th painted ceiling and the creation of different screen-based displays of the data. This initiative won the UU Team Award for Education 2025, awarded by the University of Utrecht.