The problem of virtual reconstructions of “places of commemoration” in light of the spatial cultural turn

Abstract

This article examines the problem of historical-cultural significance of virtual reconstructions of places of commemoration and creation of digital museums in the context of spatial turn in cultural sciences. “Places of commemoration” are viewed not only as the objects of virtual reconstruction, but also as the sources of social constructs and social practices, as the elements of cultural capital of the city. In this vein, the projects of digital museums can be viewed as the program for creation of commemorative environment, which in turn, contributes to formation and development of the sense of solidarity in the society. An interdisciplinary approach is realized through the use of methodology of historical and culturological studies, with consideration of the so-called spatial turn in cultural sciences, as well as technologies of virtual design and mathematical modeling. Formation of commemorative environment and civil identity is intensified by any form of reference (including virtual space) to the places of commemoration as to the landmarks of social memory and tradition, key components of historical capital of the city. The projects of virtual reconstruction (creation of digital museum) of memorial places using software platforms with an open code OpenSimulator should be perceived as “augmented reality” of historical capital of the city.