Uist Unearthed
The innovative app is the first of its kind, and features an Augmented Reality reconstruction of one of Uist’s most important archaeological sites – Cladh Hallan, South Uist.
28 July 2021
Leugh ann an Gàidhlig (read in Gaelic)
Last July we blogged about seven archaeological sites along the Hebridean Way set to feature in a digital reconstruction project. Now that ambition has been realised in an app which aims to encourage communities and visitors to enjoy some of Uist’s most significant archaeological features.
Experiencing those prehistoric and historic sites in their landscape is easier than ever thanks to the brand-new app – Uist Unearthed (Ulaidhean Uibhist - ‘Uist Treasures’ in Gaelic) – which was created by archaeologists from Lews Castle College UHI and supported by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.
Launched last week, the innovative app is the first of its kind, and features an Augmented Reality reconstruction of one of Uist’s most important archaeological sites – Cladh Hallan, South Uist. As well as stunningly realistic visualisations of the site as it may have looked 3,500 years ago, the app also includes 3d models of artefacts, animations, audio, and bilingual text content. This site will be followed by six more reconstructions over the next two years. Each reconstruction of what once existed is triggered once a site is reached, encouraging users to explore sites in their landscape settings after scanning a QR code.
The app and reconstructions were beautifully created by Peel Interactive, who specialise in the development of immersive digital experiences for the heritage and tourism sector.
Uist Unearthed App graphics.
Other sites to be featured include An Doirlinn (a Neolithic settlement site in South Uist), Cill Donnain (an Iron Age wheelhouse also in South Uist), and Dun Torcuill (a magnificently preserved broch in North Uist).
Emily Gal, Project Coordinator, is understandably enthusiastic about this landmark achievement. “We are thrilled to finally launch our fantastic app, and proud to have had extensive local input throughout the development and testing process. The promotional video was created by UistFilm, with bespoke music created by Lews Castle College UHI music students. The app was tested by numerous community stakeholders including the pupils of Sgoil Bhaile a’Mhanaich and Sgoil Lionacleit, with content translations provided by Ceòlas Uibhist”.
Way mark along the Hebridean Way.
A spokesperson at NatureScot commented “This is such an exciting project, brilliantly showcasing the rich historical sites along the Hebridean Way. We’re really pleased to support it, through our Natural and Cultural Heritage Fund, to give visitors even more to enjoy and learn about the island’s unique landscape and culture.”
The project was awarded £271,000 as part of a new £5million Scottish programme of projects to invest in the Highlands and Islands to provide more high-quality opportunities for visitors to enjoy natural and cultural heritage assets. The Natural and Cultural Heritage Fund is administered by NatureScot and is part funded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The project is also supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Crown Estate Ward Funds and Stòras Uibhist.
To download the free app, search for ‘Uist Unearthed’ in the app stores now.
