No other spot in The Netherlands can match the 2000 years of history of the Domplein in Utrecht. It was faced with only one problem: a major part of this history is under the ground and literally passed over by everyone.
To unlock this concealed history for the public at large DOMunder was created. This underground archaeological visitor experience combines access to well-preserved heritage with an evocative experience – with high tech solutions for climatization, conservation and multimedia – at a single venue, in an innovative way that is unprecedented in Europe.
Visitors assume the role of the archaeologist, as a time-traveller, by descending into the darkness with an interactive flashlight (based on infrared and 3D technology). This light is used to activate walls, findings and stories. In this way, they uncover the unbelievable layered history of the Domplein square. They go back in time until they come face to face with the Roman headquarters: the birth of Utrecht.
Aside from this archaeological expedition, which mainly arouses curiosity, there’s also the multimedia descent in time. Aided by the detailed 3D reconstructions of the Domplein, visitors virtually find themselves, amongst other things, in the Gothic Cathedral and look around the Roman Castellum.
A second audio-visual highlight is ‘the terrible tempest’. By making use of the state-of-the-art computer animations, lighting and sound effects, the visitor relives this historical storm of 1674. All of this takes place right in the middle of the archaeological discoveries, which makes it all an authentic experience.