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As museums around the world increasingly seek to reinterpret historical heritage through digital technologies, the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan has emerged as one of the institutions showcasing this modern approach, attracting the attention of international visitors. During a visit to the Center, established at the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, a delegation led by Eivind Vad Petersson, State Secretary at Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that the use of digital technologies in museums has become an effective way of presenting cultural heritage to contemporary audiences. According to the distinguished delegation, such approaches represent a new global trend in cultural diplomacy and digital heritage.

During the visit, the delegation led by State Secretary Eivind Vad Petersson explored the Center’s collection of historical manuscripts, rare artifacts, and interactive multimedia installations.

The visitors paid particular attention to the successful integration of traditional historical heritage with advanced digital technologies throughout the museum’s exhibitions.

In recent years, the world’s leading museums have increasingly introduced artificial intelligence, digital reconstruction, multimedia, and interactive visualization technologies to enhance visitor engagement and create more immersive experiences.

The Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan has adopted a similar approach. Its exhibitions enrich historical sources with innovative digital solutions, enabling visitors not only to view historical materials but also to engage with them interactively.

One of the exhibitions that attracted the greatest interest from the Norwegian delegation was the Gallery of Great Figures. Beneath its fourteen arches, digital avatars bring the images of renowned scholars to life, narrating their biographies, scholarly achievements, and contributions to human civilization in ten different languages.

According to experts, this format offers a more engaging and accessible way of presenting historical heritage, particularly for international visitors and younger generations.

After touring the exhibitions, Eivind Vad Petersson, State Secretary at Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that the Center successfully presents the rich history of the region and the remarkable contributions of Central Asian scholars to the development of global science through the effective use of modern technologies.

Eivind Vad Petersson, State Secretary at Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

“This is an extraordinary, large-scale, and truly impressive institution. Learning about the rich history of this region, its invaluable contribution to the advancement of humanity, and the remarkable scientific achievements of the great scholars who originated from this land has been an unforgettable experience for me. It is a remarkable example of what a modern museum should be. I was especially impressed by the way historical artifacts have been seamlessly integrated with the latest technologies. Here, history is not merely displayed it is brought to life through modern means in a vivid and engaging way. I would highly recommend that everyone visit this place to experience and discover it firsthand.

What impressed me most was the museum’s exceptional ability to combine its traditional character with cutting-edge technology. This makes it particularly engaging, accessible, and meaningful for younger generations.”

A new instrument of cultural diplomacy

According to international experts, museums today are no longer merely places where artifacts are preserved. They have become influential institutions that play a significant role in cultural diplomacy, historical memory, and the exercise of nations’ soft power.

From this perspective, the interactive and multimedia solutions introduced at the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan represent a contemporary approach to presenting the country’s centuries-old scholarly and spiritual heritage to a global audience.

By presenting the intellectual legacy of great scholars, historical manuscripts, and cultural treasures in digital formats, the Center demonstrates Uzbekistan’s commitment not only to preserving its cultural heritage but also to promoting it through innovative technologies.

The remarks made by the Norwegian delegation during the visit further confirmed that this approach is being warmly received by international visitors.

At a time when modern museology is becoming increasingly intertwined with digital innovation, the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan is establishing itself as a new cultural platform that demonstrates how history can be not only preserved but also brought to life through the possibilities of contemporary technology.