Digital Platform 'MemoriDim' Preserves the Stories of Donetsk and Luhansk Amid Occupation

The 'Path Marked by Salt' Project and the 'MemoriDim' Platform

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Following the challenges faced by communities in Donetsk and Luhansk regions, the team behind the "Path Marked by Salt" initiative developed the digital platform "MemoriDim". This platform is designed to safeguard the histories of towns and villages, many of which are now under occupation. The occupation has led to restricted access to numerous sites along the route and poses a threat to the preservation of the region’s cultural legacy. Launched after 2022, the platform aims to maintain collective memory of these territories despite ongoing conflicts.

How 'MemoriDim' is Organized

Structured as a virtual house, "MemoriDim" offers several distinct sections for users to explore:

• "Rooms" - featuring stories from towns and villages alongside residents’ personal recollections.
• "Storeroom" - showcasing personal belongings, collections, and local cultural artifacts.
• "Kitchen" - dedicated to traditional recipes from the region.
• "Library" - containing research, books, publications, and various materials related to Donetsk and Luhansk.

In addition, the platform offers 14 audio tours covering locations along the "Path Marked by Salt," including caves, mines, and notable natural and historical landmarks. Residents’ memories are curated in sections called "Salt Cellars" and "Little Salt Cellars," with the latter presenting stories randomly to provide fresh experiences upon each visit. Plans are underway to allow users to contribute their own stories, enriching the platform’s content and fostering community involvement.

“I used to help people discover this land by traveling its roads. Now, I help preserve the path to it within our shared memory,” said Yana Synytsia, a project participant.

It’s worth noting that in December 2021, the state enterprise "Artyomsol" launched the "Salt Fairy Tale" tourist route, aimed at promoting the cultural heritage of the area. "MemoriDim" complements these efforts by providing a vital tool for preserving the memory of Donetsk and Luhansk in the face of modern challenges.

This initiative represents a significant step toward protecting the cultural identity of regions deeply affected by conflict and occupation. By offering a digital space where memories and stories at risk of disappearing can be preserved and accessed, it strengthens local community identity. Encouraging user participation in content creation further emphasizes the power of collective memory and the importance of active engagement in safeguarding history.