Digital technology can support increased appreciation of cultural heritage, strengthen dialogue and understanding among cultures. How do younger generations react, interact or create new ways to express their cultural heritage?

In the state of Minas Gerais, the cities of São João del-Rei, Ouro Preto, Mariana, Catas Altas, Congonhas, Diamantina, Sabará, Serro and Tiradentes have more than 40 different sounds of bells, which identify liturgical rites, deaths, types of masses, births, fires, sacred hours.

The Sound of Bells – 9 cities, 40 sounds and Other Stories, is a multiplatform project, which is pioneering the use of new media for the dissemination of the intangible heritage. Focusing on the Sound of Bells and on the work of bell ringers, the project works with the combination of memory and new technologies, sound mapping, community engagement and appreciation of the people who have their knowledge registered as intangible heritage.

Through a multimedia platform that includes interactive browsing, feature film documentary, public interventions and an app for mobile devices, the Sound of Bells establishes channels to the imaginary while revealing the cultural identity of Minas Gerais.