Under the framework of the Latvia–Lithuania cross-border project “Development of Tourism Offer in Selonia / Weekend in Village” (LL-00132), the Jēkabpils History Museum has successfully implemented a series of innovative activities at its Open-Air Department, “Sēļu sēta”. These updates bridge the gap between historical heritage and modern technology, offering visitors an immersive journey into the traditional Selonian way of life.
Virtual Reality: Stepping into the Blacksmith’s Forge
The project has introduced a 3D animated virtual reality (VR) experience. This interactive game allows visitors to wear VR goggles and step into a digital smiddy to master the blacksmith’s craft.
- The Experience: Users perform sequential tasks such as adding coal to the forge, using bellows to fan the flames, and forging a virtual horseshoe.
- Accessibility: Four sets of VR goggles are available simultaneously at the “Sēļu sēta” Craftsmen’s House. The experience lasts up to 5 minutes, with instructions provided in Latvian, Lithuanian, and English.
Educational Play: Historical Wooden Toys
Since Autumn 2025, the territory of “Sēļu sēta” has been enriched with a collection of educational wooden toys. These elements are designed to help younger visitors understand ancient Latvian daily life through play.
- Historical Context: Replicas of windmills, family houses, wells, stables, and wooden horses are strategically placed near the museum’s historic buildings. This allows children to physically engage with the functions of a traditional farmstead while exploring the museum grounds.
Mechanics of the Past: Interactive Windmill Model
To illustrate the beginning of the bread-making process, an interactive windmill model has been installed.
- Interactive Learning: Visitors can observe how grain was processed into flour by engaging with mechanisms that simulate mill wheel rotation and grinding.
- Location: Positioned next to the original historic windmill, this model provides a tangible explanation of the labor-intensive traditions of the past.
Digital Heritage: The Interactive Magic Mirror
In late 2025, a cutting-edge digital mirror was added to the “Sēļu sēta” exhibition. This interactive screen allows users to:
- Discover History: Explore 12th-century male and female archaeological folk costumes found during excavations at Sēlpils Lejasdopeļu.
- Test Knowledge: Interactively assemble the costume components in the correct historical order.
- Augmented Reality: Use the integrated camera to “try on” the virtual costumes in real-time.
Regional Connectivity: Digital billboard at Krustpils Castle
Broadening the project’s reach, a digital interactive touchscreen billboard was installed at the Krustpils Castle Visitor Center in January 2026. This hub serves as a central information point, providing tourists with comprehensive details about the project activities, partners, and the diverse tourism offerings across Aizkraukle and Jēkabpils (Latvia) and Biržai (Lithuania).