Vatican Library Turns to NFTs for Manuscript Preservation

Vatican Library Partners with NTT DATA Italia

The Vatican Library just teamed up with NTT DATA Italia to protect its vast collection of manuscripts using blockchain technology. They will give out NFTs to Italian social media users and donors. This initiative aims to preserve historical documents and engage a broader online community.

On Monday, the Vatican Library announced the "Web3 Support Project". This project seeks to grow the library’s social network using contemporary technology. By July 16, those who post about the project on social media will be awarded a "Silver NFT," which gives them access to fifteen distinct manuscripts. A "Gold NFT," which grants access to 21 manuscripts, will be given to donors.

Since these NFTs are soulbound, they can never be transferred and are a permanent part of the recipient's digital wallet. This feature ensures exclusive access to the valuable manuscripts for those who support the project.

Proof-of-Concept on OpenSea

419 owners have received Polygon-based NFTs thus far, according to an OpenSea proof-of-concept. This demonstrates the usefulness of blockchain technology in protecting cultural heritage.

Since 2014, NTT DATA Italia has collaborated with the Vatican Library to conserve its historical documents. They use the digital archive service provided by AMLAD, which offers access to over 2 million materials. This ongoing partnership demonstrates the dedication to preserving and disseminating cultural treasures.Source: Vatican Library Web3 Support Project POC (OpenSea)

Upcoming Uses and Expanded Reality

The Vatican Library Prefect, Don Mauro Mantovani, commended NTT DATA Italia for their efforts in preserving the library's cultural legacy. He talked about the possible applications of this technology in the future, like complete immersions that let viewers observe historical objects in virtual reality.

The CEO of NTT DATA Italia, Ludovico Diaz, emphasized the importance of preserving the cultural legacy of the Vatican Library. He emphasized the significance of keeping up conservation efforts and making digital content available to people all around the world. Diaz also discussed applying blockchain technology to other industries, such as entertainment and education. The objective of this strategy is to link organizations that own important digital information with a worldwide audience.