Univerzity Palackého creates 3D models of Kroměřížské ametystové grotty

Palacký University has created 3D models of the amethyst grottos at the Archbishop's Palace in Kroměříž to show how the caves likely appeared at the end of the 17th century. Developed through a collaboration between the Archdiocese of Olomouc and the university, the models of the Apollon and Důlní grottos include real amethysts lit by optical fibers, lights that imitate fire, and a functional fountain.

Jan Brus from the university's Department of Geoinformatics created the models based on a hypothetical reconstruction. The design combines the current state of the caves with elements from an 1839 description, such as the water and lighting features. The project follows the discovery of the amethyst decorations last year by art historian Jana Zapletalová.

The models became available for free viewing on September 29 at the Pevnost poznání science center in Olomouc. They are scheduled to move to Kroměříž next year. The physical models serve to help visitors visualize the original splendor of the grottos while the actual sites undergo research and restoration involving scaffolding.