From Narrative to Digital ModelTwo-Level Representation in Heritage Reconstruction: Mariacka Street, Gdańsk Poland

This study highlights the transformative potential of merging written and digital models, demonstra- ting their ability to create new research sources, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhance educational experiences. The following article explores two-level representation, highlighting the link between written models (historical documentation) and represented models (physical and digital reconstructions). Using Mariacka Street in Gdańsk as a case study, it examines how historical sour- ces informed the physical reconstruction of the street after World War II and how modern digital technologies have facilitated its digital recreation. The post-war reconstruction relied on archives to restore Mariacka’s historical architecture with its terraced houses, stone stoops, intricate decoration and ornamentation, symbolising the city’s rich heritage. Technological advancements have enabled the development of digital representations of Mariacka Street, fostering new dimensions of cultural preservation and public engagement. These reconstructions combine historical data with 3D point clouds and photogrammetry, allowing interactive exploration and comparative analysis of the hi- storical evolution of Mariacka. By reflecting on the dual nature of representation– both as an act of preservation and as an act of interpretation –the article underlines its importance of heritage management in the digital age, ensuring that cultural narratives remain relevant and accessible to future generations.