Coding Da Vinci

This project focused on the digital preservation of medieval gargoyle sculptures from the Freiburg Minster, combining photogrammetry, 3D reconstruction, and interactive storytelling.

As part of a multidisciplinary team, I was responsible for the complete digital capture and cleanup of the gargoyle statues using Agisoft Metashape and Blender. The goal was to bring these cultural artifacts into an accessible and engaging form for younger audiences and museum visitors.

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From Real Stone to Real-Time 3D

We scanned original gargoyle statues located in the restoration workshop of the Freiburg Minster. Due to spatial constraints, some models were challenging to capture, but we optimized our approach using high-resolution photogrammetry and careful retopology in Blender.

Key 3D techniques used:

This workflow allowed us to preserve historic detail while maintaining performance for interactive use.


Cultural Heritage as Interactive Experience

To make the reconstructions more engaging, we embedded them in a Unity-based tower defense game. Players strategically place the scanned gargoyle models to defend the Minster against demons – inspired by medieval lore where gargoyles were believed to repel evil.

The game was presented publicly at the Coding da Vinci hackathon and featured in a museum setting, showcasing how digital tools can revitalize cultural storytelling.


Technologies & Skills


This project shows how cultural artifacts can be digitally preserved and reimagined through real-time media – combining historical accuracy with modern technology and design.

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© 2025 Sabine Schleise