The World Heritage Site of Aksum represents one of Late Antiquity’s most impressive civilizations. Yet, the archaeological materials representing Africa's impressive ancient civilization are...Show moreThe World Heritage Site of Aksum represents one of Late Antiquity’s most impressive civilizations. Yet, the archaeological materials representing Africa's impressive ancient civilization are scattered across museums worldwide, with inadequate categorization, documentation, and ongoing research. Furthermore, the management of the Aksum World Heritage Site has consistently fallen short, as highlighted by both archaeological and ICOMOS reports. Its issues are fundamental and all-encompassing, ranging from urban encroachment and illicit excavating, to severe flood risks and destabilization of the site's iconic monuments. Additionally, political instability in Ethiopia has further hindered the preservation and recognition of Aksum's archaeological significance. This thesis aims to address these challenges by contributing to the study of Aksumite archaeology and proposing strategies to increase public awareness of the threatened Aksumite heritage. Firstly, this thesis endeavors to create a comprehensive overview of current historical, archaeological knowledge on ancient Aksum and its often overlooked Aksumite material collections, which have been dispersed due to Ethiopia's colonial history. By gathering and organizing this dispersed knowledge, the thesis seeks to shed light on the impressive materiality of ancient Aksum. Building on these findings, the research proposes a strategy to generate public outreach for Aksumite heritage by harnessing innovative digital technologies. By thoroughly researching the use of digital platforms, immersive experiences, and interactive tools, this thesis seeks to bridge the gap between the scattered material collections and the global heritage community, by aiming to make the Aksumite heritage more visible, accessible and interactive. By comprehensively addressing the issues of neglect, mismanagement, and lack of integration into global historical narratives, while simultaneously proposing practically applicable strategies towards effective heritage outreach, this research strives to revitalize the recognition and preservation of the Aksumite heritage. The thesis underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to protect and showcase the Aksumite heritage before it remains forever hidden from modern science.Show less
Het Gudit Stèle Veld was een gebied ten zuidwesten van Aksum, Ethiopië. Het dateert uit de 3e en 4e eeuw na Chr. en in deze periode zijn ongeveer honderd stèles hier neergezet. Welke functie had...Show moreHet Gudit Stèle Veld was een gebied ten zuidwesten van Aksum, Ethiopië. Het dateert uit de 3e en 4e eeuw na Chr. en in deze periode zijn ongeveer honderd stèles hier neergezet. Welke functie had het Gudit stèle veld binnen de Aksumitische samenleving gedurende de opkomst van het christendom?Show less
