The Vatican Library has recently announced a groundbreaking initiative to incorporate Web3 technology by granting non-transferable NFTs to supporters of its manuscript collections. This unique project, currently in the experimental phase, is specifically available to Italian backers of the Vatican Apostolic Library.
Italian individuals have the opportunity to share the NFT project on their social media platforms until July 16, entitling them to receive a “Silver NFT” and access to a selection of 15 manuscripts in high-resolution images. For those who choose to financially support the project, they will be awarded a “Gold NFT” and have access to high-resolution images of all 21 manuscripts in the special collection.
In order to bring this innovative project to fruition, the Vatican Library has partnered with NTT DATA, a prominent Japanese technology company. Their collaboration aims to enhance the library’s digital presence by leveraging Web3 advancements to connect with supporters.
The Vatican Library, renowned for its vast collection of manuscripts and printed books, is dedicated to advancing public access to its priceless artifacts. With approximately 180,000 manuscripts and 1.5 million printed books in its possession, the library has a rich history dating back to the 14th century and beyond to the 4th century.
Looking ahead, the Vatican Library hinted at the prospect of offering virtual or augmented reality tours of its historic premises. Salesian Father Mauro Mantovani, prefect of the Vatican Apostolic Library, emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting the library’s unique collections with the help of NTT DATA.
This new Web3 project is in line with the Vatican Library’s ongoing mission to engage with the public and embrace modernization. In 2020, the library introduced a redesigned website with improved search functionalities and easier access to digitized treasures such as manuscripts, archival materials, coins, medals, and pre-16th-century European printed works.
The Vatican Library’s foray into Web3 technology through the issuance of NFTs marks a significant step forward in its efforts to make its invaluable collections more accessible to a global audience. By blending tradition with innovation, the library is poised to continue its legacy of preserving and sharing knowledge for generations to come.
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