Debrecen4U May 20, 2026

AI Takes Centre Stage at Archive Days in Debrecen

“A meeting point for tradition and the future” was the slogan for the 53rd Archive Days, opened on 19 May 2026, with this year’s theme focusing on archival innovation and the use of artificial intelligence.

The Hungarian National Archives is using algorithms to decipher centuries-old handwritten documents that are often difficult to read. These developments are also highly relevant from a historical perspective, one example being the processing of prisoner-of-war record cards from Russia. In addition, CT and X-ray technology have been used to examine the interiors of historic Hungarian gold seals without causing any damage to them. A presentation on these innovations was delivered by György Rácz, Scientific Director of the Hungarian National Archives.

The event was attended by Zoltán Pajna, President of the Hajdú-Bihar County Assembly, and István Puskás, Deputy Mayor of Debrecen for cultural affairs and also included an exhibition introducing the newly established Főnix Architectural Documentation Association.

The conference continues on 20 May at the University of Debrecen with presentations on the university library’s digitisation programme.

Source and photo credit: debrecen.hu